Rescue efforts are underway in the rugged Tibetan region of Mount Everest after a significant snowstorm left approximately 1,000 people stranded at campsites on the mountain’s eastern flank, according to reports from Chinese state media. The treacherous conditions have prompted the deployment of hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams, who are working to clear snow and ensure access to the affected areas, situated at an altitude exceeding 4,900 meters (16,000 feet).
The storm, which began on Friday evening, has intensified, causing tents to collapse under the heavy snowfall. Reports indicate that some tourists have already been successfully rescued, while others are beginning to suffer from hypothermia.
In response to the severe weather, the Tingri County Tourism Company has temporarily halted ticket sales and access to the Everest Scenic Area. Meanwhile, neighboring Nepal is also grappling with extreme weather, including heavy rains that have led to devastating landslides and flash floods, resulting in numerous casualties and damaged infrastructure.
The article also notes that China is currently facing the impact of Typhoon Matmo, which has necessitated the evacuation of around 150,000 people from their homes. Mount Everest, standing at over 8,849 meters, is renowned as the world’s highest peak, and while it attracts many climbers annually, the ascent remains exceptionally perilous, with ongoing concerns regarding overcrowding, environmental impact, and fatal climbing accidents.
Related Stories:
- ‘A legacy worth millions’ – India’s former royals who draw a meagre pension
- Who is Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ Sanae Takaichi?
- Sanae Takaichi set to become Japan’s first female prime minister
More from the BBC:
- India and China to resume direct flights after a five-year ban
- Russia targets UK military satellites on weekly basis
- ‘Broken promises’ and deadly violence push Himalayan beauty spot to the edge
- A new China tech visa has caught India’s attention – now locals aren’t happy
- Former aide to far-right German politician jailed for spying for China