In a dramatic rescue effort, a total of 580 hikers found themselves stranded on Mount Everest’s eastern slopes due to heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions. The group, which included numerous international trekkers, has now been safely guided to the township of Qudang and surrounding areas in Tibet. They were assisted by approximately 300 local guides, yak handlers, and support staff, as reported by Chinese state media.
The final contingent of about 10 hikers, accompanied by rescue workers, is nearing safety, having reached a designated rendezvous point equipped with essential heating, oxygen, and emergency supplies. The tourists were caught off guard by the severe weather, which struck during China’s popular eight-day Golden Week holiday, a prime time for tourism in the region.
The trekkers were at an altitude exceeding 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) when the blizzard hit, blocking their intended route. While October typically offers clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for trekking in the Everest region, this year’s unexpected snowfall presented extreme challenges.
Many of the stranded hikers reported harrowing experiences. One trekker, who has explored the Himalayas over a dozen times, described the weather as unlike anything he had encountered before, with several members of his group exhibiting signs of hypothermia. Another hiker mentioned needing to constantly clear snow from their tents to prevent collapse, highlighting the intensity of the storm.
The local authorities and community responded swiftly, mobilizing police, firefighters, and hundreds of Tibetan volunteers for the rescue operation. This incident also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountain weather, even during generally favorable seasons.