Mount Everest Rescue: Hundreds Evacuated, Search Underway for 200+ Hikers Trapped by 'Unusual' Blizzard
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TINGRI COUNTY, Tibet – October 6, 2025 – A large-scale emergency operation is racing to rescue more than 200 trekkers still stranded on the slopes of Mount Everest after a rare and powerful blizzard swept the region during China's Golden Week holiday.
Chinese state media reported on Monday that a total of 350 hikers have been safely evacuated and transported to the small town of Qudang, but a smaller group remains trapped in the remote Karma Valley on the mountain’s eastern Tibetan face. One fatality from hypothermia and acute altitude sickness was confirmed in the wider region.
The severe weather, which began on Friday and intensified over the weekend, trapped an estimated 1,000 people in total at altitudes above 4,900 meters (16,000 feet).
Extreme Conditions and Heroic Efforts
Survivors described the sudden blizzard as "extreme" and "unusual" for October, typically a season of clear skies.
"It was so wet and cold in the mountains, and hypothermia was a real risk," said trekker Chen Geshuang, who was among those brought down. Another hiker, Eric Wen, detailed a terrifying night of constant work: "We had to clear the snow every 10 minutes, otherwise our tents would have collapsed."
The rescue effort has involved more than 300 professional search-and-rescue officials, supported by drones, horses, and hundreds of local villagers who are manually clearing deep snow to open access routes. Officials have confirmed contact with the remaining groups and are guiding them down the mountain in stages.
As a safety measure, local authorities suspended all ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest Scenic Area until conditions improve.
Wider Regional Mayhem
The same weather system has caused widespread destruction across the border in Nepal. Torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides, resulting in at least 47 fatalities since Friday, with emergency crews struggling to reach isolated communities and restore damaged infrastructure.
