Rescue Operations Underway for Hikers Trapped by Snowstorm on Mount Everest

Rescue teams are assisting hundreds of hikers stranded by heavy snowfall on Mount Everest's Tibetan slopes during China's national holiday. As of Sunday, approximately 350 hikers had reached a meeting point in Tingri County, with rescuers maintaining contact with an additional 200 individuals.

The hikers were trapped at elevations exceeding 4,900 meters (16,000 feet), where deep snow—up to 1 meter (3 feet)—has crushed tents and blocked paths. Hundreds of rescuers, assisted by local villagers with horses and oxen, are working to clear routes and bring down those affected.

The snowstorm struck during China's weeklong national holiday, a peak period for tourism in the region. In response, authorities have suspended ticket sales and restricted entry to the Everest Scenic Area.

This incident follows recent natural disasters in the area, including an earthquake in January that resulted in at least 126 fatalities and heavy rains in Nepal causing over 40 deaths.