A massive search and rescue mission is underway in Tibet following a severe snowstorm that stranded around 1,000 individuals on Mount Everest. Local villagers and rescue teams are mobilized to clear snow and reopen access to areas above 4,900 meters on the Tibetan side’s eastern slopes of the mountain.
Reports from Chinese media indicate that heavy snowfall began on Friday evening, affecting the popular climbing and hiking areas on the eastern slopes. The Tibet Blue Sky Rescue team was alerted after tents collapsed under the weight of the snow, with concerns raised about potential cases of hypothermia among stranded hikers.
Amid continuous snowfall on Friday and Saturday, the Tingri County Tourism Company halted ticket sales and access to the Everest Scenic Area. According to Chinese state media Jimu News, 350 people have been rescued and reached the town of Qudang, with efforts ongoing to reach the remaining 200-plus individuals still trapped on Everest.
This incident recalls a similar event in 2010 when approximately 2,000 tourists were stuck in a village over 9,000 feet above sea level for five days due to storm conditions. Meanwhile, in neighboring Nepal, heavy rain has caused landslides and flash floods, resulting in at least 47 fatalities in recent days, with 35 deaths reported in the Ilam district bordering India.
Rescue operations are being intensified in both regions to assist affected local communities and tourists facing adverse weather conditions. Additionally, parts of northern and southern Bengal are experiencing flooding due to sudden heavy rains.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep concern over the situation, promising immediate assistance to affected families. She highlighted the impact of excessive rainfall in North Bengal, leading to the collapse of bridges, road damages, and flooding caused by overflowing river waters from Bhutan and Sikkim.