Why in the News?
A controlled avalanche was artificially triggered on Mount Elbrus in Russia to safely release accumulated snow following heavy snowfall, reducing the risk of natural avalanches.
About
- Highest mountain in Europe
- An ancient, extinct volcano with two distinct peaks
- Part of the Caucasus mountain system
- Major hub for mountaineering and alpine tourism
Location
- Situated in southwestern Russia
- Lies in the Caucasus Mountains, just north of the Georgia border
- Located between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea mountain corridor
Key geological features
- Twin coned stratovolcano formed over 2.5 million years ago
- Highest peak at 5,642 metres
- Second peak at 5,595 metres
- Covered by 22 glaciers
- Feeds major rivers such as Kuban and Terek
- Though dormant for nearly 2,000 years, still shows sulphurous gas emissions and mineral springs
Significance
- Officially recognised as Europe’s highest peak
- Included among the Seven Summits for global climbers
- Important site for glaciological research and climate change studies
- Observed by scientific missions including the International Space Station
- Economically vital for tourism and adventure sports in the Caucasus region
UPSC Prelims Pointers
- Mount Elbrus is higher than Mont Blanc
- It is an extinct stratovolcano, not a fold mountain
- Located in the Caucasus, between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea
- Hosts extensive glaciation despite being dormant
- Controlled avalanches are used for disaster risk reduction in high mountain regions
| [2014] Turkey is located between:
(a) Black Sea and Caspian Sea (b) Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea (c) Gulf of Suez and Mediterranean Sea (d) Gulf of Aqaba and Dead Sea |
