Rescue Operation Saves Hundreds Stranded in Himalayan Blizzard
Hundreds of trekkers were rescued from a blizzard near Mount Everest's eastern face in Tibet after unusually heavy snow and rainfall. Guided by local rescuers, they reached the township of Qudang. The adverse weather endangered them with hypothermia and blocked access routes, prompting a large-scale rescue effort.
In a dramatic rescue operation, hundreds of trekkers stranded near the eastern face of Mount Everest in Tibet have been led to safety after heavy snow and rainfall caused havoc in the Himalayas. Chinese state media reported that around 350 trekkers reached the township of Qudang, though contact has been made with over 200 more.
The trekkers had been visiting the remote Karma valley for an eight-day National Day holiday when unexpectedly harsh weather conditions struck. Many faced the real risk of hypothermia due to the cold and wet environment, with several needing assistance to descend from the mountains.
Efforts by local villagers and rescue teams to clear snow were vital as nearly 1,000 were trapped, according to state media. While those affected were eventually ferried to safety, the severe weather also sparked fatal landslides and floods in nearby Nepal, resulting in at least 50 deaths.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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