A powerful Mt Everest blizzard has left hundreds of trekkers stranded on the world’s highest peak this week, prompting a large-scale rescue effort led by the Tibet Fire Department. On Sunday, October 5, 2025, heavy snow and freezing winds battered the Gama Valley region of Everest, cutting off access routes and trapping over 1,000 travelers along the mountain’s eastern slope.
Rescue operations began late Sunday evening, with 11 emergency vehicles and 60 firefighters dispatched to assist the stranded climbers. The department reported that their teams arrived on the scene around 8:29 p.m., immediately initiating search and evacuation efforts amid the relentless storm.
Over 350 Trekkers Rescued, 200 Still Missing
According to China Central Television (CCTV), approximately 350 trekkers were successfully evacuated to the township of Qudang by noon on October 6, where they received medical attention and shelter. However, as of late Monday, more than 200 people remain unaccounted for, and search teams continue to comb through the snow-covered terrain.
Reports from Reuters and Jimu News confirm that the blizzard’s sudden onset left many vehicles buried under snow, forcing locals and rescue workers to manually clear the roads. Many of the stranded travelers were international tourists and professional climbers attempting autumn expeditions before winter closures.
Firefighters and Locals Battle Harsh Conditions
The Tibet Fire Department described the conditions on Everest as “extremely harsh,” with visibility dropping to near zero and temperatures plummeting well below freezing. Despite these challenges, rescuers have been working around the clock to reach those trapped by snowdrifts and blocked mountain roads.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing dozens of hikers forming human chains to stay together while awaiting help. Drone footage shared by authorities shows rescue crews navigating through thick snow, using thermal cameras to locate stranded individuals.
Emergency responders also established temporary relief stations along the route to provide food, heat, and medical assistance.
A Stark Reminder of Everest’s Unpredictable Weather
While Everest remains a symbol of adventure and endurance, the Mt Everest blizzard serves as a stark reminder of the mountain’s unpredictability. Sudden snowstorms are not uncommon in October, a transitional period between the monsoon and winter seasons.
Meteorologists from the Tibet Meteorological Bureau noted that this latest storm was intensified by shifting jet stream patterns, bringing heavy precipitation and cold air from the northwest. They have since issued weather advisories urging climbers and trekking groups to postpone expeditions until conditions stabilize.
Global Attention on the Rescue Mission
News of the Everest blizzard has drawn global attention, as families await updates on missing trekkers. International embassies are reportedly coordinating with local authorities to assist their citizens caught in the storm.
Rescue teams from Nepal and China are working jointly along both sides of the border to locate survivors, using GPS data and satellite communication to map the affected areas. Helicopter operations are expected to resume once winds subside and visibility improves.
Everest’s Enduring Challenge
Mount Everest has long been a beacon for mountaineers seeking to conquer its legendary summit, but it remains one of the most dangerous places on Earth. The combination of high altitude, unpredictable weather, and treacherous terrain makes every ascent a test of survival.
This recent Mt Everest blizzard highlights the growing risks of adventure tourism amid climate changes that are making mountain weather patterns even more volatile.
Conclusion: Hope Amid the Snow
As rescue teams continue their tireless mission, the world watches with hope that all stranded trekkers will soon be brought to safety. The incident underscores the importance of preparedness and real-time weather monitoring for all future expeditions.
For now, Everest once again reminds us that even in an age of technology and adventure tourism, nature still commands ultimate respect.
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