Tibet, October 5, 2025 (Agencies): A powerful blizzard has stranded nearly 1,000 climbers and trekkers on the eastern slopes of Mount Everest on the Tibetan side, prompting a large-scale rescue operation amid worsening weather conditions. The storm, which began late Friday and intensified through Saturday, has buried camps in deep snow and blocked key access routes, leaving hundreds cut off at high altitudes.
Authorities confirmed that by Sunday afternoon, around 350 people had been safely evacuated to Qudang township, while contact was established with more than 200 others still trapped higher up the mountain. Hundreds of local villagers, emergency responders, and military personnel have joined forces to clear paths and guide groups down in stages. Camps affected lie above 4,900 meters (16,000 feet), where rapidly changing conditions are making rescue operations increasingly difficult.
The heavy snowfall forced authorities to shut down access to the Everest Scenic Area and suspend ticket sales. Trekking groups in the Karma valley, near the mountain’s eastern Kangshung face, were particularly affected. Many climbers were in the region to take advantage of China’s eight-day National Day holiday, when trekking activity peaks. Several tents reportedly collapsed under the weight of the snow, and cases of hypothermia have been reported among stranded climbers.
The blizzard’s impact has extended beyond the slopes of Everest. In neighboring Nepal, heavy rains associated with the same weather system triggered landslides and flash floods, killing at least 47 people over recent days. The adverse conditions have also disrupted communication lines and delayed the deployment of additional rescue resources.
Rescuers face treacherous terrain, steep slopes, low visibility, and continuous snowfall. Authorities have emphasized that evacuations will proceed in carefully coordinated stages to avoid further casualties. Rescue teams are prioritizing reaching all stranded individuals, providing medical support, and ensuring their safe descent.
Officials warned that the situation remains fluid, with further snowfall expected in the coming days, which could complicate operations further.