Rescue efforts begin as storm leaves hundreds stranded in Tibet camps

Sudden Blizzard Traps Trekkers on Mount Everest

Reports indicate that nearly 1,000 trekkers became stranded due to a sudden, severe blizzard on the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest during China’s National Day holiday weekend. State media sources noted that at least 350 individuals have managed to reach safety, but many others are still stuck in the affected areas.

The snowstorm began late Friday, bringing significant snowfall and rain across the Himalayas. The most impacted location was the Karma Valley in Tibet, situated at an altitude exceeding 13,779 feet.

During this ordeal, Laura Dahlmeyer, an Olympic champion, suffered severe injuries and went missing following a collapse in the mountainous region.

Snow continued to fall through Saturday, obstructing roads and trails, which hampered access to several popular hiking routes during the busy eight-day holiday. According to China Central Television, many of the rescued trekkers were escorted to Quadang Township thanks to local rescue teams. It’s anticipated that more individuals will find their way to safety as villagers and first responders work to clear the heavy snow.

Jimu News, a state-supported outlet, estimated that around 1,000 people, which includes hikers, guides, and local support personnel, were caught in the storm when it swept through.

Rescue operations are being carried out by local villagers and members of the Tibetan Blue Sky Rescue team. One trekker, Chen Geshuan, mentioned to Reuters the challenging conditions: “It was very wet and cold in the mountains, and hypothermia was a real risk.” He noted how his group of 18 trekkers encountered unexpected extreme weather. “Our guide said he had never seen such conditions in October, and it hit us out of nowhere,” he added.

The local Tibetan government has reportedly organized rescue efforts, deploying heavy machinery to reopen blocked roads leading to isolated camps.

On a related note, authorities suspended ticket sales and closed access to the Everest Scenic area on Saturday evening, according to the Tingri Tourism Company’s WeChat account. While trekking opportunities exist on the north side of Everest, it remains uncertain if they might be more accessible via road.

Meanwhile, neighboring Nepal is facing its own troubles with extreme weather, leading to landslides and flash floods that have claimed at least 47 lives since Friday. Among the deceased, 35 people perished in separate landslides in the eastern Illam district, close to the Indian border, with others still reported missing after being swept away.