Five Bosnian climbers are feared to have died after a violent storm struck Russia's Mount Elbrus, while rescue teams continued search and recovery operations under difficult weather conditions.
Russia's Emergencies Ministry said two other members of the seven-person expedition were rescued, evacuated from the mountain, and taken for medical care.
The ministry also said the bodies of two climbers had been located at an altitude of 5,350 metres, while the search for three others remained ongoing as adverse weather delayed recovery efforts.
The Bosnian climbing rescue service said the group had been caught in severe conditions on the mountain, which is known for rapid and unpredictable weather changes.
Russian rescuers said recovery operations were being hampered by strong winds and poor weather, preventing the immediate evacuation of the bodies already located.
The ministry did not specify the nationality of the three climbers still being searched for.
Bosnian media reported that all seven members of the expedition were residents of the central town of Zenica.
The group reportedly included a married couple as well as a doctor employed at the local hospital.
Russian media also reported that strong winds and deteriorating weather had significantly complicated both search and recovery efforts.
Officials said operations would continue when conditions permitted.
Mount Elbrus rises to 5,642 metres just north of Russia's border with Georgia and is widely known for sudden shifts in weather and climbing conditions.
Although regarded as a route that does not require advanced technical climbing skills, the mountain's altitude and powerful winds present serious risks to climbers.
A cable car allows visitors to reach approximately 12,500 feet before summit attempts begin along several established routes.
The dormant volcano remains a popular destination despite its hazardous environment.
Earlier this year, an avalanche swept through a ski resort on Mount Elbrus, sending tourists fleeing as snow rushed down the mountainside.
The latest incident has again highlighted the dangers posed by rapidly changing weather on the mountain as rescuers continue efforts to recover the missing climbers.