A large-scale rescue mission is under way on the slopes of Mount Everest after a severe snowstorm struck the eastern side of the mountain in Tibet. Hundreds of hikers and climbers were caught in the storm, prompting authorities to send in emergency teams to clear snow and reach those trapped.
According to Chinese state media, more than 350 people have been safely guided to the nearby township of Qudang, located at an altitude of about 4,900 meters (16,000 feet). Around 200 others remain stranded on the mountain as rescuers continue their efforts under difficult conditions.
The heavy snowfall began late Friday and intensified through the weekend, hitting popular trekking routes on Mount Everest’s eastern slopes. Local officials reported that villagers, rescue teams, and volunteers have joined forces to open blocked trails and provide food and shelter to those rescued.
Hikers Describe Extreme Conditions
Among those affected was 29-year-old hiker Geshuang Chen, who set out from Qudang on 4 October, planning to reach Cho Oyu Base Camp for panoramic views of the Himalayas. Chen said the group expected light snow, but by the next morning, more than a meter of snow had covered the area.
“All of us are experienced hikers, but the blizzard was extremely difficult to handle,” she said, describing how her team decided to turn back. “I was so lucky to get out safely.”
Another hiker told reporters that three members of his group suffered hypothermia, even though they were well-equipped. They had to clear snow every few minutes to prevent their tents from collapsing.
Rescue Efforts Amid Harsh Weather
The storm struck during China’s National Day “Golden Week,” a peak tourism season that attracts many hikers to scenic routes leading to Mount Everest. Rescue teams say thick snow has made it difficult to reach some areas, with rescuers manually clearing paths to locate missing trekkers.
Authorities have warned travelers to avoid the region until conditions improve. Meanwhile, nearby Nepal is also experiencing severe weather, including landslides and flash floods that have killed dozens in recent days.
At over 8,849 meters, Mount Everest remains the world’s highest and one of the most challenging peaks. While it continues to draw climbers from around the globe, this latest snowstorm serves as a reminder of the extreme and unpredictable conditions that make the mountain both iconic and perilous.
In other news also read about UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain to Be Accessible with One Visa
