The mudslide hit the Shovi area on Thursday. Shovi, about 140 kilometers (85 miles) northwest of the capital Tbilisi, is popular for its mineral springs and rugged mountain views, and is home to cabins and small hotels.
The head of the Emergency Management Service of the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Temur Mgebrishvili, confirmed the deaths of 17 people and noted that 18 were still missing.
The Georgian authorities indicated that they have only managed to identify seven of the deceased and that DNA tests will determine the identity of the other victims.
Officials noted that the avalanche was apparently due to heavy rain, aggravated by recent erosion in the area.
FOUNTAIN: Associated Press
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