A deadly landslide resulted in the loss of at least 17 lives, with 18 others reported missing as of August 4. 

The disaster happened on August 3 in Shovi, located in western Georgia’s mountainous Racha region. Shovi is a well-known resort area, appreciated for its green forests and pristine springs.

Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili addressed the disaster, confirming the death toll and emphasizing the ongoing efforts to locate the missing individuals. He has sought the military’s support in the search and rescue operations. The interior ministry has reported the safe evacuation of 200 residents from the affected vicinity. Aided by helicopters and specialized rescue dogs, teams are meticulously searching the affected area. But with roads, bridges, and other infrastructure affected, rescue efforts are hampered.

Offering a perspective on the event’s cause, geologist Merab Gaprindashvili from Georgia’s National Environmental Agency pointed to the confluence of two factors: the melting of glaciers upstream and substantial recent rainfall. He conveyed to the public that the likelihood of a similar event in the immediate future was minimal.

Georgia’s history with natural disasters, particularly landslides, is notable given the region’s topographical challenges. A previous landslide in Adjara, a region near the southern Black Sea, resulted in six casualties in 2008.

August 7 was designated a national day of mourning in Georgia, with flags flying at half-staff.