BBC News, BEIJING, Oct 6: Rescue operations are underway on the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest after a powerful snowstorm trapped nearly 1,000 people in high-altitude camps, Chinese state media reported. Hundreds of villagers and emergency teams have been sent to clear deep snow that has cut off access at more than 4,900 meters, the BBC reported.
About 350 stranded trekkers have been escorted to safety in Qudang township, local media said, citing Reuters. Rescue workers continue to search for the remaining people still stuck in the affected area, the BBC stated.
The snow began late on Friday and worsened across the eastern face of Everest, a popular spot for hikers and climbers. Survivors described freezing and wet conditions where hypothermia posed a serious threat. Chen Geshuang, part of a trekking group that reached Qudang, told Reuters that the storm was sudden and harsher than anything his guide had seen in October, the BBC mentioned.
Reports from Chinese state media said the Blue Sky Rescue team received calls for help after tents collapsed under heavy snow and several trekkers showed signs of hypothermia. Tingri County’s tourism authority has suspended ticket sales and closed entry to the Everest Scenic Area since Saturday, Reuters reported, the BBC reported.
The wider region is facing severe weather, with Nepal suffering heavy rains that triggered landslides and flash floods, killing at least 47 people and destroying bridges. In China, Typhoon Matmo has forced around 150,000 people to evacuate their homes, the BBC said.
Everest rises to 8,849 metres and remains the world’s highest peak. Each year, thousands attempt the climb despite the risks. In recent times, the mountain has faced overcrowding, environmental problems, and a series of deadly incidents, according to the BBC.
