Seven tourists from the Chinese mainland drowned in Russia's Lake Baikal this week after their vehicle broke through thin ice near Olkhon Island, according to the Chinese Consulate General in Irkutsk. The incident occurred amid unseasonably warm temperatures that have raised safety concerns about winter travel in the region.
Timeline of the Tragedy
The vehicle, carrying eight Chinese nationals, fell through unstable ice on February 20, 2026. One passenger escaped and was rescued, while search teams recovered seven bodies. Russian authorities confirmed the ice crossing route had been officially closed at the time of the accident.
Diplomatic Response
The Chinese consulate activated emergency protocols immediately after being notified, coordinating with Russian rescue teams and dispatching officials to assist families. A criminal investigation has been opened by the Russian Investigative Committee to determine liability.
Repeating Risks
This marks the second fatal incident involving Chinese tourists on Lake Baikal this winter. On January 28, 2026, another Chinese national died in a separate ice-related vehicle accident. The consulate had issued a safety alert on January 29 urging caution when driving on frozen surfaces.
Climate Complications
AccuWeather data shows temperatures near Lake Baikal reached 14°C this week – far above typical subzero February averages. Environmental experts warn such conditions create deceptive ice formations that appear stable but lack structural integrity.
The Chinese consulate reiterated its travel advisory through official channels, urging tourists to verify route permissions and heed local safety warnings.
