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Rescue operations are underway in the remote eastern slopes of Mount Everest in Tibet, after a severe snowstorm struck campsites housing hundreds of climbers and hikers.
Authorities have deployed hundreds of local villagers and rescue workers to clear the snow blocking access to the area, which sits at an altitude of over 4,900m (16,000ft). So far, 350 people have been guided to safety in the small township of Qudang, while efforts continue to reach another 200 hikers still stranded on the mountain.
Heavy snowfall began on Friday evening, intensifying the already challenging conditions. The affected region is popular among hikers seeking views of Everest and nearby Himalayan peaks, especially during China’s Golden Week, a peak tourism period.
Hiker experiences:
Geshuang Chen, 29, set off from Qudang on October 4 aiming for Cho Oyu Base Camp, but her group was caught in the blizzard. “When we woke up, the snow was about a metre deep. All of us are experienced hikers, but this blizzard was extremely difficult,” she said.
Eric Wen, another hiker, reported that three members of his group suffered hypothermia, despite proper gear. “We had to clear the snow from our tents every 10 minutes; otherwise, they would have collapsed,” he added.
Rescuers face major challenges due to thick snow and extreme weather conditions, which have also affected neighbouring regions. Nepal has been hit by heavy rains causing landslides and flash floods, killing at least 47 people, while Typhoon Matmo forced the evacuation of 150,000 people on China’s eastern coast.
Mount Everest, the world’s tallest peak at 8,849m, remains a highly dangerous destination. Despite the risks, climbers continue to attempt the summit each year, though recent years have raised concerns over overcrowding, environmental impacts, and fatal accidents.
