In brief
A sudden blizzard near Everest leads to severe conditions for hikers, with reports of hypothermia and one fatality. Rescuers have successfully evacuated around 350 hikers, but over 200 remain stranded in challenging weather as volunteers and local rescue teams continue efforts to bring them to safety.
Hikers caught in a shock blizzard near Mount Everest have spoken of experiencing hypothermia as they battled relentless snowfall, while rescuers continue to evacuate scores of people.
At least one hiker has died and more than 200 are still stranded on Everest's eastern slopes in Tibet, an area popular with climbers and hikers, Chinese state media reported.
Snowfall began on Friday evening and intensified over the weekend. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue workers have been deployed to clear out snow blocking access to the area, which sits at an altitude of more than 4,900m (16,000ft).
Rescuers have guided 350 people to safety in the small township of Qudang. Authorities are in contact with all the hikers who are still trapped.
Nature photographer Dong Shuchang was among those who flocked to the area during China's Golden Week holiday. He was looking forward to capturing the Himalayan marvel from the Tibetan slopes when the snowstorm hit just hours after his trek started on Saturday.
Dong described the harsh conditions: The lightning and thunderstorms would not stop. The snowfall was so heavy I could hardly sleep. Our windbreakers and raincoats were no match for the snow. We were all drenched, he said, noting that several in his group showed signs of hypothermia.
The group, consisting of experienced hikers, found themselves retreating through worsening conditions with deep snow covering the trail. Dong expressed relief upon receiving help, stating, We're just so relieved to get help and support. This year's snow was exceptional.
As rescue operations continue, many hikers, including families, remain stranded in treacherous conditions. The sharp drop in weather and subsequent blizzard have caused significant challenges, affecting both hikers and rescue teams alike as they trek through deep snow.
Authorities have identified the blizzard as exceptionally severe for this time of year, calling to mind recent weather events across the region. In neighboring Nepal, torrential rains and floods have also impacted thousands, further complicating rescue efforts.
As conditions begin to stabilize, teams remain dedicated to reaching those still affected by the storm. Local villagers have also joined in the efforts, showcasing community solidarity in the face of nature’s unpredictability.
