World's Highest Peak Emergency Operation Under Way as Blizzard Traps Nearly 1,000 People
Rescue operations are ongoing on the world's tallest mountain following a intense blizzard that left nearly 1,000 individuals isolated at base camps on the east face of the peak.
Hundreds Guided to Safety Amid Unusual Precipitation
Numerous hikers cut off by the snowstorm near the east side of the peak were safely guided by rescue teams on Sunday, as exceptional snow and rain pummelled the Himalayas.
As of Sunday, 350 people had arrived at the remote town of the rescue base, while contact had been made with the other two hundred hikers.
Peak Season Led to High Visitor Numbers
Tourists in the isolated area of Karma, which provides access to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, numbered in the hundreds this week, taking advantage of an extended holiday break in the area.
Snowfall in the valley, which sits at an average altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), began on Friday evening and continued throughout Saturday.
Ongoing Efforts to Bring Remaining Trekkers to Safety
The other hikers are scheduled to reach the safe zone in stages under the guidance and assistance of rescuers dispatched by the local government.
Hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams have been deployed to help clear pathways blocking access to the area.
Uncertainty Over Support Staff and Other Areas
Estimates indicated that close to a thousand individuals had been stranded. Details were unclear whether support staff and team members with the hiking groups had been located.
Remains unknown if hikers near the north face of the mountain—also in the region—had been impacted or not.
Peak Season and Entry Halted
The north face of Everest, due to its easy access by roadway, often attracts large numbers of visitors. This month is a busy period, when weather improves with the end of the Indian monsoon.
Ticket sales and access to the whole Mount Everest region were halted from Saturday, according to announcements posted on local platforms.
Nearby Area Impacted by Heavy Rains
To the southern side of the area, heavy rains triggered landslides and sudden flooding that have blocked roads, washed away bridges, and killed at least 47 people since last week.
Thirty-five individuals lost their lives in multiple mudslides in the eastern Ilam district near the Indian border. Nine individuals were reported missing after being carried off by flood waters, and three others were fatally struck in lightning strikes in other parts of the nation.
