Rescue teams have successfully located the remaining 200 hikers stranded at an altitude of 16,000 feet on Mount Everest following a severe snowstorm that hit the world’s highest peak. The adverse weather conditions, which included heavy snow and rain from Friday to Saturday, left trekkers stranded during their remote climb. Approximately 350 individuals have already been rescued, and the operation is expected to conclude by Tuesday.
The rescued trekkers have been transported to the town of Qudang in Tibet, located around 30 miles from Everest’s base camp. One hiker who was caught in the blizzard highlighted the perilous circumstances faced by those trapped on the mountain before the arrival of rescuers. According to the hiker, the uncharacteristically harsh weather conditions posed a significant risk of hypothermia, with the guide remarking on the unprecedented weather for October.
Another witness shared their experience, emphasizing the extreme difficulty posed by the blizzard despite their hiking expertise. Several individuals, including two men and a woman, suffered from hypothermia despite being appropriately dressed for the expedition. Clearing snow every 10 minutes became a necessity, and sleep was scarce for more than 10 occupants in a large tent.
Heavy snowfall at the Oga Campsite in the Karma Valley complicated the 12-day trek to the summit, with the storm causing havoc across the Himalayan region, leading to casualties and natural disasters in Nepal. The Karma Valley, where numerous climbers were marooned, is a challenging trail requiring mountaineering skills and physical fitness. The route is regulated and necessitates the presence of guides, similar to other paths leading to the summit.
Initial reports suggested 1,000 climbers were stranded due to the weather, but Chinese state media later confirmed the evacuation of 350 individuals, leaving 200 still trapped. Mount Everest remains a popular destination, attracting a significant number of visitors annually, with over 540,000 visitors in 2024. While the majority of visitors do not attempt to summit, an estimated 1,000 individuals reached the peak last year.