Rescue operations were in full swing on Sunday after a sudden blizzard trapped close to 1,000 trekkers and climbers in remote campsites on the eastern slopes of Mount Everest in Tibet, Chinese state media reported.

The snowstorm, which began Friday evening, intensified over the weekend, cutting off access routes at altitudes above 4,900 metres. Hundreds of villagers and rescue teams were deployed to clear the heavy snow and assist stranded visitors.

Sudden, severe weather

October usually marks a peak season on Everest, when post-monsoon skies typically clear. This year’s unusually heavy snowfall and rainfall disrupted the holiday season, coinciding with China’s eight-day National Day break. Authorities suspended ticket sales and entry to the Everest Scenic Area from late Saturday.

Wide

See Full Page