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Rescue operations are ongoing on Mount Everest following a intense blizzard that stranded close to a thousand people trapped at base camps on the eastern side of the peak.

Hundreds Rescued Successfully Amid Unusual Snowfall

Hundreds of trekkers cut off by the blizzard near the eastern face of the peak were led to safety by emergency responders on the weekend, as exceptional snow and rain pummelled the Himalayas.

As of Sunday, three hundred and fifty individuals had reached the remote town of the rescue base, while contact had been made with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Peak Season Contributed to High Visitor Numbers

Tourists in the isolated area of Karma, which leads to the eastern Kangshung face of Mount Everest, totaled several hundred this period, taking advantage of an extended holiday break in the region.

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

Ongoing Efforts to Rescue Others to Safety

The other hikers are scheduled to reach Qudang in phases under the guidance and assistance of rescuers organised by the local government.

Many residents and response units have been sent to help clear pathways blocking access to the area.

Uncertainty Over Support Staff and North Face

Reports indicated that nearly 1,000 people had been stranded. Details were unclear whether local guides and team members with the hiking groups had been accounted for.

Remains unknown if hikers near the northern side of the mountain—also in the area—had been impacted or not.

Peak Season and Entry Halted

The north face of Everest, due to its easy access by paved road, often attracts large numbers of visitors. October is a peak season, when skies clear with the end of the Indian monsoon.

Ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest scenic area were suspended from Saturday, according to notices posted on local platforms.

Nearby Area Affected by Severe Weather

To the southern side of the area, heavy rains triggered landslides and sudden flooding that have closed routes, destroyed bridges, and killed at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five individuals died in separate landslides in the Ilam eastern region bordering India. Nine people were reported missing after being swept away by rising waters, and three more were killed in electrical storms elsewhere in the country.