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Rescue operations are actively underway on Mount Everest following a severe snowstorm that stranded nearly 1,000 individuals trapped at campsites on the east face of the peak.

Hundreds Rescued Successfully Amid Unusual Snowfall

Numerous hikers cut off by the snowstorm near the eastern face of the peak were safely guided by emergency responders on the weekend, as unusually heavy snow and rain pummelled the Himalayan region.

By the weekend, 350 people had arrived at the remote town of Qudang, while contact had been established with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Peak Season Led to High Visitor Numbers

Visitors to the isolated area of the Karma valley, which leads to the eastern Kangshung face of Mount Everest, totaled several hundred this period, taking advantage of an eight-day National Day holiday in the region.

Heavy snow in the region, which sits at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (over 13,700 feet), began on Friday evening and continued all day Saturday.

Continued Operations to Bring Remaining Trekkers to Safety

The other hikers are expected to arrive Qudang in phases under the guidance and assistance of emergency teams dispatched by the local government.

Hundreds of local villagers and response units have been sent to help clear pathways blocking access to the region.

Unclear Details Over Local Guides and North Face

Reports indicated that nearly 1,000 people had been stranded. It was not specified whether local guides and team members with the hiking groups had been located.

Remains unknown if hikers near the northern side of Everest—also in the region—had been affected or not.

Tourist Rush and Entry Suspended

The north face of Everest, due to its easy access by paved road, often attracts large numbers of tourists. This month is a busy period, when skies clear with the conclusion of the Indian monsoon.

Ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest scenic area were suspended from the weekend, according to notices posted on official channels.

Nearby Area Impacted by Heavy Rains

To the southern side of the region, heavy rains caused landslides and flash floods that have closed routes, washed away bridges, and killed at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five individuals lost their lives in multiple mudslides in the eastern Ilam district bordering India. Nine individuals were reported missing after being swept away by flood waters, and three more were fatally struck in lightning strikes in other parts of the nation.