Rescue efforts are underway on Mount Everest after a snowstorm trapped nearly 1,000 people in camps on the mountain’s eastern side, according to Chinese state media.
Initial Rescue Efforts and Conditions
On Sunday, hundreds of trekkers stranded by the blizzard near Everest’s eastern face in Tibet were successfully guided to safety. As of that day, 350 people had reached the small township of Qudang, while rescuers were in contact with the remaining trekkers.
Visitors in the Karma valley, leading to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, had flocked there during an eight-day National Day holiday in China. Heavy precipitation began Friday night and continued through Saturday, bringing snowfall to the area, which is 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) high.
Challenges Faced by Trekkers and Rescue Teams
Chen Geshuang, part of a trekking team that reached Qudang, described the conditions as wet and cold, highlighting the risk of hypothermia. He noted that the unusual weather caught everyone by surprise.
Other trekkers will arrive in Qudang gradually, assisted by local government-organized rescue teams. Hundreds of local villagers have also joined the effort to clear snow blocking access to the area.
Impact of the Storm Beyond the Mountain
The north face of Everest, accessible by paved road, typically attracts many tourists each October. However, ticket sales and entry to the Everest scenic area were suspended as of Saturday.
In Nepal, heavy rains have triggered landslides and flash floods, blocking roads and resulting in at least 47 fatalities since Friday. Among the casualties were 35 deaths in the eastern Ilam district, and several others were reported missing or killed by lightning elsewhere in the country.
