Overview of the Situation
A severe snowstorm has left hundreds of hikers stranded on the Tibetan slopes near Mount Everest, disrupting one of the peak seasons for trekking in October. Conditions worsened quickly on Friday evening, with rain turning to heavy snowfall on the eastern approaches to Everest. Local accounts describe biting cold and wet weather that raised the risk of hypothermia for climbers and guides alike.
What Happened and Where
The Karma valley—an access route to the eastern face of Everest—began receiving fresh snowfall Friday night and continued through Saturday. Early reports placed the number of stranded hikers around 1,000, but authorities have since clarified the situation. On Monday, Chinese state media reported that about 350 people had been evacuated, while roughly 200 remained in contact with rescue teams or campers awaiting further assistance. The area sits at an altitude exceeding 4,900 meters (about 16,000 feet), compounding exposure risks for anyone caught in the storm.
Rescue Efforts on the Ground
Local rescue teams, supported by nearby villagers,have mobilized to clear blocked access routes and reach trapped groups. Snow and ice have blocked trails and camp clusters, making evacuation slow and dangerous. Authorities have suspended ticket sales and entry to the Everest Scenic Area since Saturday to prevent additional people from entering dangerous terrain while weather remains unstable. The scale of the response reflects the real-time challenge of conducting high-altitude rescues in rapidly changing conditions.
Weather Warnings and Why This Year Feels Unusual
Several hikers and guides described October weather for Everest as atypical. A hiker evacuated to Qudang township told Reuters that the episode was unusually harsh and sudden, with temperatures and moisture reaching levels rarely seen during this month. The consistent pattern of storms and the abrupt onset of severe conditions have prompted officials and guides to reassess risk for the rest of the trekking season.
Impact on Tourism and Local Communities
With National Day holidays boosting domestic travel in China, tens of thousands have visited regions around Everest in recent days. The snowstorm’s disruption has not only endangered travelers but also affected local economies dependent on seasonal trekking, mountaineering, and tourism services. In Nepal, meanwhile, heavy rains and subsequent landslides have caused fatalities, underscoring a broader regional pattern of precarious weather in the Himalayas this year.
<h2What to Expect Next
Officials say the rescue operation will continue as long as weather permits and as paths and trails are made safe for movement. The priority remains safeguarding life, ensuring medical support for the hypothermia risk, and reestablishing clear routes for evacuation. The situation remains fluid, with daily updates expected as teams assess accessibility and weather forecasts improve.
What This Means for Everest Trekking
The ongoing rescue attempts underscore that Everest remains a challenging environment where weather can shift rapidly. For hikers and guides, October’s expected clear skies are not guaranteed, and contingency planning is essential. Travelers in the region should stay informed about weather—and heed official advisories, gate closures, and evacuation orders as needed. The event serves as a reminder of the Himalayas’ power and the importance of preparedness when exploring high-altitude terrain.
Bottom Line
Rescue teams are actively working to reach stranded hikers and campers on Everest’s Tibetan slopes, with hundreds evacuated and more awaiting contact. As authorities monitor conditions, travelers should stay tuned for official briefings and prioritize safety above all else. The mountains demand respect, especially when weather patterns defy expectations.
