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Emergency Rescue Underway as Hundreds of Hikers Trapped by Blizzard on Mount Everest

A large-scale rescue operation is currently underway on Mount Everest’s eastern Tibetan slopes after an intense blizzard and unusually heavy snowfall left hundreds of hikers stranded. The extreme weather began on Friday evening, October 3, and rapidly escalated, burying popular trekking routes under deep snow and cutting off access to key areas.

According to Chinese state media and local reports, more than 350 hikers have already been evacuated, while approximately 200 others remain trapped at high altitudes. Authorities have confirmed that contact has been made with the remaining hikers, and efforts are ongoing to guide them to safety.

Timing Collides with Peak Hiking Season and National Holiday

The incident coincides with Tibet’s peak hiking season and China’s eight-day Golden Week Holiday, a time when thousands of domestic tourists flock to scenic destinations. The combination of favorable weather forecasts and national time off led to a surge in foot traffic on Everest’s trails, particularly on the eastern slopes.

The hikers were caught off guard by the sudden blizzard, which dumped over a meter of snow overnight. “When we woke up the next morning, the snow was already about a metre deep,” said Geshuang Chen, one of 11 hikers who began their trek on October 4. Speaking to the BBC, Chen described the six-hour journey back through buried paths as “extremely difficult,” despite her group’s experience. “I was so lucky to get out,” she added (BBC News, 2025).

Rescue Teams Mobilized Amid Harsh Conditions

Local government officials have deployed hundreds of rescuers and volunteers to clear snow-blocked trails and assist stranded hikers. The township of Qudang has been designated as a central meeting point for evacuees, with teams guiding groups down from elevations exceeding 4,900 meters.

Jimu News, a Chinese digital outlet, reported that many of the trapped hikers are located in remote areas with limited visibility and communication. While the north face of Everest—typically more accessible and popular among tourists—has not been confirmed as affected, concerns remain about the status of local guides and support staff.

Broader Himalayan Crisis: Landslides and Floods in Nepal

The Everest emergency comes amid a broader climate crisis in the Himalayas. In neighboring Nepal, at least 47 people have died in recent weeks due to landslides and flash floods triggered by extreme weather (Reuters, 2025). Experts warn that climate change is intensifying weather patterns in the region, increasing the risk of sudden storms and natural disasters.

Dr. Pasang Sherpa, a climatologist at Tribhuvan University, told The Guardian: “We’re seeing more unpredictable and severe weather events in the Himalayas. What used to be rare is now becoming more frequent—and more dangerous.”

Weather Outlook and Ongoing Efforts

Fortunately, meteorological forecasts suggest improving conditions in the coming days, with clearer skies and sunny spells expected. This should aid rescue operations and allow for safer navigation of the snow-covered terrain.

Authorities have urged hikers to remain calm and follow instructions from rescue personnel. Meanwhile, families and friends of those still trapped are anxiously awaiting updates.

Conclusion: A Stark Reminder of Nature’s Power

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking, especially as climate patterns shift. While Everest remains a bucket-list destination for many, the current crisis highlights the importance of preparedness, real-time weather monitoring, and coordinated emergency response.

As rescue teams continue their efforts, the world watches with hope that all remaining hikers will be brought to safety soon.

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