Over 350 Trekkers Rescued Amid Everest Blizzard, Hundreds Still Trapped
In a dramatic and high-stakes operation, more than 350 trekkers have been rescued from the treacherous slopes of Mount Everest after a sudden and severe blizzard struck the region. However, hundreds of climbers and support staff remain stranded, battling freezing temperatures and life-threatening conditions as rescue efforts persist.
Blizzard Brings Chaos to Everest
The blizzard, which hit unexpectedly earlier this week, is one of the most severe in recent years, with winds reaching up to 100 km/h and temperatures dropping to a bone-chilling -30°C. The storm has buried trails under several feet of snow, making navigation nearly impossible and cutting off access to lower camps, including the Everest Base Camp and higher-altitude staging areas.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Rescue efforts, spearheaded by the Nepalese Army, local sherpas, and international mountaineering teams, have been ongoing since the blizzard began. Helicopters have been deployed to airlift stranded climbers to safety, but the operation has been significantly hindered by poor visibility and the extreme weather. Over 350 trekkers, including several Indian nationals, have been evacuated so far.
Anjali Sharma, a climber from Mumbai, shared her harrowing experience: “The storm was relentless. We lost all sense of direction. Without the sherpas and rescue teams, I don’t think we would have made it.”
Critical Situation for Those Still Stranded
Despite the successful rescues, the situation remains dire for hundreds of climbers still stranded at higher altitudes. Many are running low on essential supplies like food, water, and oxygen, and are struggling to survive in the sub-zero temperatures. Nepalese authorities have called for additional resources and international aid to expedite the rescue mission.
“The weather is extremely challenging, but we are doing everything possible to save lives,” said Major Rajesh Thapa of the Nepalese Army.
Calls for Better Preparedness
The blizzard has reignited debates about the risks of high-altitude trekking, especially during the peak climbing season in April and May. Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, attracts thousands of climbers annually, but its unpredictable weather and harsh conditions make it one of the most dangerous places on Earth. Experts are urging for stricter regulations and improved preparedness to prevent such incidents in the future.
Families Await Updates
Families and friends of the stranded climbers are anxiously awaiting news. Social media is flooded with messages of hope and prayers, with many urging authorities to intensify rescue efforts. The Indian Embassy in Nepal has established a helpline to assist affected Indian nationals and their families.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives and ensuring the safety of those still stranded. The blizzard serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Himalayas and the bravery of those who dare to conquer them.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for the latest updates on this developing story.
