Hundreds of Mount Everest hikers trapped on the Tibetan slopes are being rescued after a sudden blizzard struck during China’s National Day “Golden Week” holidays. The Mount Everest blizzard began late on October 3, catching trekkers and tourists in the Karma Valley area of Tibet off guard.
According to local authorities, more than 900 hikers, guides, and support staff were trapped on Mount Everest after heavy snowfall hit the eastern slopes, known for scenic trekking routes rather than summit climbs. The snow reached nearly one meter deep, collapsing tents and blocking access roads leading to Qudang and nearby villages.
The Mount Everest trapped hikers were part of organized tour groups, mostly domestic tourists who arrived between October 1 and 3. The blizzard caused power outages and communication breakdowns, with rescue operations beginning early on October 4.
- Oct 1–3: Thousands of tourists entered Tibet for the holiday week. Many reached the Karma Valley for base camp treks.
- Oct 3 (late): Blizzard began; visibility dropped to near zero.
- Oct 4: Local authorities halted ticket sales and launched rescue efforts involving villagers, firefighters, and heavy machinery.
- Oct 5: Around 350 people evacuated to Qudang; one fatality confirmed due to hypothermia and altitude sickness.
- Oct 6: Another 350 hikers rescued; around 200 remained stranded but in contact.
- Oct 7: Rescue teams continued the final evacuations as weather conditions improved.
Officials have confirmed that all hikers trapped on Everest are now in communication with rescue teams. Supplies were delivered through local volunteers and emergency teams using yaks and off-road equipment. At least one death has been confirmed. Several people were treated for hypothermia, but no additional fatalities have been reported.
As per The Guardian.com. Chen Geshuang, a 29-year-old astrophotographer, said, “The snow was thigh-deep, and we had to clear our tents every few minutes. It came suddenly.” Another trekker, Eric Wen, said visibility was almost zero, calling it a “nerve-wracking night.” reported by Reuters.
Social media clips shared on X show lines of Mount Everest hikers trapped in deep snow as rescuers guided them to safety. Villagers welcomed the first evacuees with warm drinks as operations continued through the night.
The blizzard struck the eastern face of Mount Everest—a non-technical trekking zone known as the Everest Scenic Area. It’s distinct from summit routes used by climbers. Authorities in Tibet suspended entry to the area after the storm. Experts suggest such unseasonal storms could become more common as weather patterns shift.
On the Nepal side, recent monsoon floods caused fatalities but did not affect the mountain directly. According to climate researches the post-monsoon seasons that used to be regarded as stable are experiencing unanticipated snowstorms.
Rescues were organized with the help of WeChat notifications and satellite phones by Tibetan authorities. Hundreds of firefighters, police and locals came on board to assist those trapped on Mount everest. Over 700 hikers were already safe by October 7.
Online discussions on X and Reddit highlighted concerns about over-tourism during peak holidays and the growing risks of sudden weather changes on Mount Everest.
Officials stated that all remaining hikers are expected to be evacuated by the end of October 7. No new injuries have been reported, and weather forecasts show gradual improvement.
