A catastrophic and unexpected blizzard recently plowed through the Everest region, stranding hundreds of trekkers and climbers. Many are currently living in dangerous and uninhabitable circumstances. Among those affected is Chen Geshuang, who was part of an 18-member trekking team that descended from the mountains on Sunday. The team faced conditions of blizzards, thunder, and lightning, which conspired to make the ordeal dangerous for everyone involved.
Chen described the ordeal, stating, “It was so wet and cold in the mountains, and hypothermia was a real risk.” Yet her experience reflects what many are experiencing in the region. As you have probably seen in the news, weather conditions here deteriorated drastically this past week. The unexpected storm has not only hampered travel but raised serious health concerns for those caught in its grip.
This year, as Chen puts it, the weather has gone “off script.” She mentioned, “The guide said he had never encountered such weather in October. It happened all too suddenly.” Sadly, the fast-accelerating climate crisis has turned the area into a notoriously treacherous landscape for hikers.
Rising Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The effects from this extreme weather go far beyond the long-distance trekking community. Since Friday, heavy rains, landslides and flash floods have killed at least 47 people in Nepal. This summer’s catastrophic weather has taken a tragic toll on so many communities. These nine souls with so much life left to live were swept from our midst by floodwaters. Three more died in related incidents from lightning strike nationwide.
In eastern Ilam district near the Indian border, at least 35 people died in multiple landslides. Local authorities have mobilized hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams to clear snow obstructing access to the Everest region. Nearly 1,000 people remain stuck in the impacted area — very much an urgent situation. Most of them are in dire need of help.
Suspension of Tourist Activities
Perilous circumstances compelled authorities to halt ticket sales for all of the Everest Scenic Area. This move, which has implications for the entire country, went into effect late Saturday. Our hope with this decision is to avoid future tragedies and keep both tourists and rescue workers safe. Only three hundred fifty trekkers have made it this far to the tiny township of Qudang. So far we’ve only been able to reach more than 200 more trekkers still missing likely affected.
The first thing Chen Geshuang did after she was finally safe. She recalled, “When we got back to the village and had something to eat, then we felt warm—at last, we were warm.” Her emotional journey serves to illustrate the physical challenges that through-hikers face. It provides compelling insight into the psychological toll these experiences can take.
As rescue efforts continue, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation while ensuring that those still stranded receive the necessary help. The events surrounding this disaster highlight the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and its profound impact on those who seek adventure in these challenging terrains.
