BLIZZARD STRIKES MT EVEREST: Hundreds of Trekkers Trapped as Severe Weather Wreaks Havoc on Death Zone
- Nearly 1000 trekkers caught off guard by sudden blizzard on eastern face of Mt Everest in Tibet
- 350 trekkers guided to safety, but 200-plus still stranded as rescuers battle heavy snow and rain
- Local villagers and rescue teams deployed to clear snow and assist trekkers, with some roads blocked and bridges washed away
In a dramatic rescue operation, hundreds of trekkers have been guided to safety after becoming trapped by a severe blizzard on the eastern face of Mt Everest in Tibet. The sudden storm struck on Friday evening, catching peak-season trekkers off guard and leaving nearly 1000 people stranded.
As of Sunday, 350 trekkers had reached the small township of Qudang, but contact with the remaining 200-plus trekkers had only just been made, according to China Central Television (CCTV). The trekkers, who were visiting the remote valley of Karma, which leads to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, were taking advantage of an eight-day National Day holiday in China.
The severe weather conditions, which included heavy rain and snowfall, began on Friday evening and persisted throughout Saturday. The local government organised rescuers to assist the trekkers, with hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams deployed to help clear snow and restore access to the area.
Jimu News estimated that nearly 1000 people had been trapped, but it was unclear if local guides and support staff of the trekking parties had been accounted for. The north face of Everest, which is also in Tibet, was not believed to be affected, but the situation was still unfolding.
In a stark warning, officials suspended ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest Scenic Area from Saturday, citing the severe weather conditions. The move came as heavy rains triggered landslides and flash floods in Nepal, killing at least 47 people and blocking roads, washing away bridges.
As the rescue operation continues, concerns are growing for the safety of the trekkers still stranded on the mountain. The situation is being closely monitored, with officials working to ensure the safe evacuation of all those affected.
“In a heartbreaking development, the trekkers are facing a desperate wait for rescue, with many stranded in the death zone,” said a rescue official. “We are doing everything we can to assist them, but the situation is extremely challenging.”
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in trekking in extreme weather conditions. As the situation continues to unfold, our thoughts are with the trekkers and their families, who are anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones.