Mount Everest Rescue Under Way as Snowstorm Traps Nearly 1,000
Rescue efforts are under way on Mount Everest after a powerful snowstorm stranded almost 1,000 trekkers in campsites on the mountain’s eastern side, according to Chinese state media. The developing situation has prompted a sustained emergency response from local authorities, with teams guiding frightened hikers to safer ground as weather slowly eases in the high Himalaya.
The incident centers on the Karma valley and the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, a route that typically draws large crowds during China’s eight-day National Day holiday. As of Sunday, state media reported that 350 people had reached the small township of Qudang, and officials said contact with the remaining trekkers in the affected camps had been re-established. The scope of those still awaiting evacuation remained fluid, with rescue operations continuing in coordination with local government agencies.
Snowfall began Friday evening in this high-altitude area, which sits around 4,200 metres (approximately 13,800 feet) above sea level. The precipitation persisted through Saturday, delivering heavy snow and rain that blocked access routes and complicated efforts to move people out of their improvised camps. Local authorities, including a large cadre of villagers and rescue teams, have been working around the clock to clear snow and create passageways for evacuees. A previous report by state-backed Jimu News suggested the total number trapped could be close to 1,000, highlighting the magnitude of the disruption.
The emergency response is notable for its scale and speed, given the terrain and the extreme weather typical of Everest’s eastern approach. Officials indicated that the remaining trekkers would arrive in Qudang in stages under the guidance of rescuers. The operation reflects a broader commitment to safeguard visitors during peak trekking seasons, particularly when seasonal weather patterns tilt toward harsher conditions.
What Went Wrong and How Rescue Is Being Conducted
While authorities have not released a complete breakdown of every affected group, the eastern Kangshung face is known for its access routes that can funnel large numbers of travelers into remote settlements. In this case, the unexpected blizzard turned what is often a scenic trek into a crisis scenario, with high winds, poor visibility, and heavy snowfall hampering transport and communication. Local authorities have mobilized a multi-pronged response including snow clearance, medical assistance, shelter provisions, and staged evacuations to Qudang, where basic services are more readily available.
CCTV, the official state broadcaster, has provided ongoing coverage of the rescue progress, noting that the situation remains dynamic as teams move to safeguard everyone accounted for and to reconnect those cut off from land routes. It remains unclear whether local guides and support staff associated with the trekking parties are included in the numbers released by the media, and reporters caution that the total may evolve as operations proceed.
Impact on Tourism and Nearby Regions
The incident has prompted the suspension of ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest scenic area from Saturday, a measure designed to preserve safety and give rescuers space to operate. The high-profile trek zone, which draws large crowds during holidays, often experiences fluctuations in visitor numbers tied to weather windows and accessibility. Nepal, meanwhile, faces its own weather-related challenges this week, with heavy rains triggering landslides and floods that have caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage in multiple districts, underscoring how seasonal extremes can simultaneously affect cross-border trekking routes and road networks.
Experts and local authorities emphasize the need for cautious planning, contingency measures, and robust communication channels during peak seasons. For trekkers, the latest events serve as a stark reminder that Himalayan weather can shift rapidly, turning a routine day on the trail into a life-threatening situation if caution is not exercised.
Looking Ahead
As conditions improve, the focus will shift to the safe completion of evacuations, medical assessments for evacuated trekkers, and an assessment of any injuries sustained during the blizzard. Authorities will likely review the incident to identify improvements in weather forecasting, risk assessment, and emergency response protocols that could minimize future disruptions in this high-stakes environment.
