What looks like a frozen wonderland can turn deadly in seconds—just ask the tourists who ventured onto Siberia’s iconic lake.
Seven Chinese tourists lost their lives after their bus plunged through the ice of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake.
The vehicle reportedly hit a three-metre-wide fissure and sank rapidly beneath the surface.
Rescue teams later confirmed the grim discovery. “Bodies of seven people were found,” officials said.
After using underwater cameras to search the wreck—lying 18 metres deep.
According to regional governor Igor Kobzev, one passenger managed to escape before the bus disappeared into the freezing water.
Unsafe Ice Crossing
Authorities have informed Chinese officials and launched a criminal investigation.
So how did this happen? During winter, the lake freezes into a breathtaking sheet of ice, attracting tourists from across the world.
But it’s not as safe as it looks. Only designated “ice roads,” monitored and approved by authorities, are considered secure. Stray off them—and the risks rise sharply.
An official confirmed the route taken by the bus was not cleared for use.
It’s a stark reminder: nature’s beauty often hides danger beneath the surface.
The question is—how many warnings does it take before people start listening?
