Mount Everest Region: Rescue efforts Ongoing for hundreds Stranded by Severe Blizzard
LHASA, TIBET – A large-scale rescue operation is underway in the Mount Everest region after a sudden and severe blizzard left over 200 hikers stranded, prompting a mobilization of local villagers and experienced guides. The storm,which intensified unexpectedly on the night of october 4th,has buried trekking paths under a meter of snow,hindering evacuation efforts and raising concerns for the safety of those caught in the mountains.
The blizzard struck during China’s Golden Week holiday, a popular time for domestic tourism and mountaineering, resulting in a higher-than-usual number of hikers on the slopes.While initial weather forecasts predicted snowfall on October 4th followed by clearing conditions, the storm rapidly worsened, bringing thunder, strong winds, and relentless snow. The affected area centers around the approach to Cho Oyu Base Camp, a trek known for its views of the Himalayan peaks.
Geshuang Chen, a 29-year-old outdoor enthusiast, described the rapid deterioration of conditions. ”When we woke up the next morning, the snow was already about a metre deep,” Chen recalled, adding that her group of more than 10 people immediately decided to turn back. The group spent nearly six hours trekking back on october 5th, navigating a path completely obscured by the heavy snowfall.
Local Tibetan villagers are playing a crucial role in the rescue, carrying supplies uphill to assist stranded hikers and participating in the search operation. Chen reported encountering villagers on her descent, stating that “hundreds of locals had joined the search and rescue operation.” Their guide confirmed the weather conditions were highly unusual for the eastern slope of Everest.
Chen is currently on her way back to Lhasa city and expressed relief at escaping the hazardous conditions. “All of us are experienced hikers,” she said. “But this blizzard was still extremely difficult to deal with. I was so lucky to get out.” Rescue teams are continuing to work to locate and assist all remaining hikers, with the operation expected to continue as long as necessary to ensure everyone’s safe return.
