200 Trekkers Stranded in Rare Snowstorm on Tibet Side of Everest During China’s Golden Week
A sudden, violent snowstorm near Mount Everest has stranded nearly 200 hikers in Karma Valley, Tibet, as rescue operations intensify. The unseasonal blizzard began late on October 3 during China’s Golden Week holiday, catching tourists and climbers off guard at 4,900+ meters (16,000+ ft) elevation.
Chinese officials confirmed that 350 people have been rescued, but many remain trapped in dangerous whiteout conditions on the eastern Kangshung face of Everest.
Rescue Operations Underway
- Blizzard hit on Friday night (October 3) at high-altitude campsites.
- Evacuations began Monday and are expected to finish by Tuesday.
- Over 350 trekkers rescued so far from the Tibetan side.
- Around 200 hikers remain stranded in Karma Valley.
- Chinese authorities said all stranded trekkers have been contacted.
In neighboring Nepal, a South Korean climber died after being caught in the same storm system while scaling a nearby Himalayan peak.
Terrifying Survivor Accounts
Trekkers described scenes of deep snow, buried tents, and disappearing trails. Social media visuals show people stuck between snow-clad mountains with their support animals—including yaks and mules—struggling to survive.
“It was the most extreme weather I’ve ever faced,” said Chinese trekker Dong Shuchang, describing the violent convective snowstorm that hit the eastern slope of Everest.
Another survivor shared:
“It was the first time I truly felt the fear of being buried alive… When I looked up, the snow had nearly covered the top.”
Terror in the Tents
- Tents were buried overnight, leaving trekkers in darkness and panic.
- Hikers were “too scared to sleep” as the blizzard intensified.
- Many decided to descend early Sunday, fearing worsening conditions.
- Local villagers were also involved in the search, worried about their loved ones who had not returned.
One hiker recounted meeting a guide’s father, who had climbed up in search of his missing son, learning how villages below were cut off and unable to reach their families on the mountain.
Unseasonal Snowfall Raises Alarm
- The storm struck during Golden Week, China’s busiest travel holiday.
- Weather experts say the snowfall was rare and highly intense for October.
- The Kangshung face, being less-traveled and remote, has made rescue efforts more challenging.
