Snowstorm on Mount Everest strands hikers
A snowstorm that hit near campsites on the eastern side of Mount Everest has trapped hikers, with rescue efforts working in the remote Tibetan slopes near the mountain. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue workers have set out to clear out the snow that blocked access to the area, over 4,900m (16,000 ft) above sea level.
350 people have been safely guided by rescuers to Qudang, a small township, and 200 hikers reportedly still on the mountain have been contacted.
The snowstorm began on Friday evening. It intensified on the mountain’s eastern slopes in Tibet. This is an area that is popular with climbers and hikers.
The region has been recently hit with extreme weather. Neighbouring Nepal has been hit with heavy rains, triggering landslides and flash floods which have washed away bridges and killed over 40 people. Meanwhile, in China, Typhoon Matmo hit its eastern coast, leading to the evacuation of around 150,000 people.
Everest is the highest mountain on the planet with a peak of over 8,848m. Many people attempt the summit every year, resulting in concerns of overcrowding, concerns for the environment, and a number of fatal attempts.
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