World's Highest Peak Emergency Operation In Progress as Snowstorm Traps Close to a Thousand Individuals

Rescue operations are actively underway on the world's tallest mountain following a intense blizzard that stranded nearly 1,000 people trapped at campsites on the east face of the summit.

Several Hundred Guided to Safety Amid Unusual Precipitation

Hundreds of trekkers cut off by the snowstorm near the east side of the mountain were safely guided by emergency responders on the weekend, as exceptional precipitation hit the Himalayas.

By the weekend, three hundred and fifty individuals had reached the remote town of the rescue base, while communication had been established with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Peak Season Led to High Visitor Numbers

Tourists in the isolated area of Karma, which provides access to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, numbered in the hundreds this period, taking advantage of an extended holiday break in the region.

Snowfall in the valley, which sits at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (13,779 feet), began on Friday evening and persisted all day Saturday.

Ongoing Efforts to Rescue Others to Safety

The other hikers are scheduled to reach the safe zone in stages under the support and direction of rescuers organised by the regional authorities.

Hundreds of local villagers and response units have been deployed to help clear pathways obstructing routes to the area.

Unclear Details Over Support Staff and North Face

Reports indicated that close to a thousand individuals had been stranded. Details were unclear whether support staff and other personnel with the trekking parties had been located.

Remains unknown if hikers near the northern side of Everest—also in the area—had been impacted or not.

Tourist Rush and Access Suspended

The north face of Everest, due to its convenient approach by roadway, often attracts large numbers of tourists. This month is a peak season, when weather improves with the end of the monsoon season.

Admission tickets and entry to the entire Everest scenic area were halted from Saturday, according to announcements posted on official channels.

Neighboring Region Impacted by Heavy Rains

To the south of the region, heavy rains triggered landslides and flash floods that have blocked roads, destroyed bridges, and claimed over forty-seven lives since last week.

Thirty-five individuals died in separate landslides in the eastern Ilam district bordering India. Nine individuals were reported missing after being carried off by flood waters, and three others were killed in lightning strikes in other parts of the nation.