Rescue teams have successfully reached the last group of 200 hikers stranded at 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 on the remote climb. Approximately 350 individuals have already been rescued, and the operation is expected to be completed by Tuesday.
The rescued trekkers have been relocated to the Tibetan town of Qudang, situated around 30 miles from the Everest base camp. One hiker who was trapped in the blizzard shared the perilous situation faced by those on the mountain before help arrived, highlighting the wet and cold conditions that posed a real risk of hypothermia.
Another witness recounted the challenging experience of dealing with the unexpected blizzard despite being experienced hikers. Several individuals suffered from hypothermia, even though they were appropriately dressed for the expedition. The continuous snowfall required constant clearing, causing a lack of sleep for many.
The snowstorm also affected the Oga Campsite in the Karma Valley, where hikers were on a 12-day trek to the summit. The storm not only impacted Everest but also triggered landslides and floods in Nepal, resulting in the deaths of 40 people. The Karma Valley, where many climbers were stranded, is a less-traveled route to the Everest base camp, known for its demanding nature and the need for experienced and physically fit trekkers.
Initially, reports suggested that 1,000 climbers were stranded, but Chinese state media confirmed on Monday that 350 individuals had been evacuated, leaving 200 still trapped. Mount Everest attracts a significant number of visitors, with over 540,200 tourists in 2024, although most do not attempt to reach the summit.
The situation on Everest underscores the unpredictable and challenging conditions that climbers and trekkers can face, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and proper safety measures in such extreme environments.