A major rescue operation on Mount Everest has concluded successfully, with all trekkers, guides, and support staff evacuated after being trapped by a severe and unseasonal blizzard. The powerful storm, which struck over the weekend, left hundreds stranded in deep snow in the remote Karma Valley.
Authorities confirmed that the final groups were guided to safety, marking the end of one of the most extensive rescue missions the region has seen. In total, the operation brought nearly 900 individuals to safety, including hundreds of local guides and yak herders who were also caught in the treacherous conditions.
The storm dumped heavy snow throughout Saturday, with accumulations quickly surrounding tents and forcing trekkers to dig out their shelters repeatedly through the night. One trekker described the group’s decision to descend on Sunday as conditions deteriorated further, recounting a tense encounter with a guide’s father who had ventured up the mountain out of concern for his son.
The severe weather also disrupted climbing expeditions on nearby peaks, including an attempt on Cho Oyu by a U.S.-guided team. The Everest region, including the Karma and Rongshar valleys, remains temporarily closed to visitors as authorities assess the situation.
The unusual October storm also affected other trekking areas in western China, where similar rescue efforts were underway. The region typically experiences mild conditions during this peak tourism season, making this severe weather event particularly unexpected.
