Rescue efforts are currently in progress on the eastern slopes of Mount Everest, near Tibet, following a snowstorm that impacted campsites housing hundreds of hikers, as reported by Chinese state media.
In response, hundreds of local villagers and rescue personnel have been mobilized to clear snow that is obstructing access to the affected area, located at an elevation of more than 4,900 meters (16,000 feet).
To date, rescue teams have successfully guided 350 individuals to safety in the small township of Qudang. Furthermore, communication has been established with 200 hikers who remain stranded on the mountain.
The heavy snowfall began on the evening of Friday, October 4, and has since intensified on Everest’s eastern slopes, an area frequented by both climbers and trekkers.
One such individual, Geshuang Chen, a 29-year-old outdoor enthusiast, began her journey from Qudang township on October 4 with the goal of reaching Cho Oyu Base Camp, a trek renowned for its stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The plan was to complete the trek within five days.
At the time, weather forecasts predicted snow on the 4th but clear skies the following day. With this in mind, Ms. Chen and her group of over 10 experienced hikers decided to proceed. However, their plans were disrupted when an intense blizzard struck unexpectedly.
“When we woke up the next morning, the snow had already accumulated to about a meter deep,” Ms. Chen explained in an interview with the BBC. The group made the decision to turn back immediately.
“Although we are all seasoned hikers, this blizzard proved extremely difficult to navigate,” she added. “I consider myself fortunate to have made it out safely.”
Ms. Chen is now en route back to Lhasa city. Reflecting on the ordeal, she noted that the snowstorm was especially unusual for this region, particularly during the Golden Week, a time when many tourists visit to hike.
“Many come here during Golden Week to explore the trails, but this year’s weather has been unprecedented,” Ms. Chen remarked. “Our guide confirmed that such severe weather on Everest’s eastern slopes is highly unusual.”
The timing of the snowstorm coincides with China’s National Day holiday, also known as Golden Week, a peak period for domestic tourism. Many visitors have traveled to the Karma Valley hiking trail, a lesser-known but picturesque route leading to Everest Base Camp, which offers stunning views of the world’s tallest peak.
In Shenzhen, a woman whose husband had been caught in the snowstorm reported that he was slowly making his way down the mountain. The journey back, however, has proven to be treacherous due to the thick snow. “Rescue teams are also struggling; they need to clear the snow to create a safe path,” she said, expressing hope that her husband’s group would be able to reach safety soon. She also shared that her husband had been unable to sleep in his tent due to the fear of being buried in the snow.
Meanwhile, Eric Wen, another hiker caught in the storm, told Reuters that three people in his group were suffering from hypothermia, despite being well-equipped. “The snowfall was relentless, and we had to clear the snow every ten minutes to prevent our tents from collapsing,” Wen shared.
In addition to the challenging conditions in Tibet, neighboring Nepal has been battered by heavy rains, which have triggered landslides and flash floods. At least 47 people have lost their lives, and bridges have been swept away in the last two days.
Elsewhere in China, Typhoon Matmo made landfall on the eastern coast, displacing approximately 150,000 people from their homes due to evacuation orders.
Mount Everest, standing at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), remains the highest peak on Earth. Every year, climbers and trekkers from around the world attempt to scale its summit. Despite its popularity, the region is fraught with dangers, including extreme weather, overcrowding, environmental concerns, and a number of fatal accidents.
Main Image: The Independent
