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A severe snowstorm on Mount Everest has left hundreds of climbers stranded on the mountain’s eastern slopes in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. The storm began on Oct. 3 and quickly intensified, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and poor visibility.
The adverse weather conditions blocked key access routes, disrupted communication with several camps, and created dangerous conditions for climbers at all elevations.
Chinese state media CCTV reports that around 1,000 climbers were affected. Rescue teams, assisted by local villagers, have evacuated 350 climbers to the nearby town of Qudang, while contact has been made with more than 200 others who remain on the mountain.
Despite the ongoing rescue efforts, one climber has died from hypothermia. Authorities have emphasized that the situation remains critical, as extreme weather and limited visibility continue to impede operations.
In response to the emergency, the regional government has temporarily suspended all tourist access and ticket sales to the Everest Scenic Area. Officials stressed that safety is the highest priority and advised climbers to postpone any expeditions until conditions improve.
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