Mount Everest Blizzard: Snowstorm wreaks havoc on Mount Everest, 1000 trekkers stranded, rescue operation underway

A severe snowstorm has stranded nearly 1,000 trekkers near Mount Everest in Tibet. This unusual snowfall occurred in October, typically considered the peak season for climbing. Rescue teams have swung into action and are rapidly evacuating hundreds of people.

A severe snowstorm has wreaked havoc in the Mount Everest region of Tibet, leaving nearly 1,000 trekkers stranded. The incident occurred on Sunday, prompting an immediate rescue operation.

What is the whole situation?

The storm is the result of unusually heavy snowfall and rain in the Himalayas. Rescue teams have rescued many trekkers after a difficult effort. According to Chinese state media, by Sunday, 350 trekkers had been safely transported to the nearby small town of Qudang. In addition, contact has been established with more than 200 trekkers and efforts are underway to rescue them.

Hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams are working together to remove the snow from the road to make it easier to reach the stranded people.

Trekkers told what they saw with their eyes

Photos and videos have emerged showing trekkers trudging through knee-deep snow and strong winds – a highly unusual sight for October.

"The mountains were so humid and cold that there was a real risk of hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature)," said a trekker who arrived safely in the town of Kudang. He also explained that the weather this year was unusual. His guide said he had never seen such terrible weather in October in his life. The trekker breathed a sigh of relief, saying, "After reaching the village, we got food and finally felt warm."

When and how did all this start?

Heavy snowfall began Friday evening and gradually intensified on the eastern slopes of Mount Everest, a region popular with climbers and trekkers. The valley is located at an average altitude of 4,200 meters (13,800 feet).

October is generally considered the best month for climbing, as the skies clear after the Indian monsoon. This year, the eight-day national holiday in China also contributed to the slightly larger crowd of trekkers.

This snowfall, combined with heavy rains in neighboring Nepal and parts of India, has caused landslides and flooding in several areas. Currently, with the help of the local government, efforts are underway to gradually evacuate the remaining trekkers.

PC:Latestly