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Tengrinews.kz – Hundreds of tourists were stranded on Mount Everest due to a severe snowstorm, but all have been rescued and moved to safe areas, citing The Independent.
According to authorities, the storm hit Everest’s eastern slope in Tibet on Friday evening. Snowfall continued into Saturday, causing tents to collapse and creating hazardous conditions for climbers.
"We received a signal that some people were trapped — tents collapsed under the weight of snow, and some began showing signs of hypothermia," said the Blue Sky Rescue team involved in the operation.
Approximately 1,000 people were blocked on the mountain. Some have already been transported to the village of Qudang at over 4,900 meters above sea level, with others being evacuated in stages.
"People have been placed in safe shelters and provided with food and warmth," the rescuers added.
@metrouk A massive rescue operation is underway to free hikers trapped at 5,000 ft above sea level on Mount Everest, but hundreds of people are still stuck. Local villagers have been digging through heavy snow, rescuing around 350 people so far. But after a snowstorm near Mount Everest causing unusual weather in peak season for hiking there, 200 people are believed to remain stranded leading to the base of the mountain. #sherpa #mounteverestdangers #nepal #tibet ♬ original sound - Metro
The high number of tourists was caused by China’s eight-day holiday week. Many travelers headed to the Karma Valley, leading to Everest’s eastern — Kangshung — slope. However, weather conditions changed abruptly.
"The snow came suddenly and was much heavier than expected," local residents noted.
Since Saturday, ticket sales have been suspended, and access to the Everest Scenic Zone has been closed. Rescue teams and volunteers from nearby villages helped clear paths and guide groups down safely.
Officials stated that the evacuation is ongoing.
"Our main goal is to ensure that all tourists return safely to secure areas," said the Tingri district government.
For context, Nepal has banned solo climbs on Everest and other eight-thousanders. Under new rules, each climber on eight-thousanders must be accompanied by a guide. In group climbs, there must be at least one guide for every two climbers. On other mountains, guides are also mandatory, with one guide permitted per team.
