Blizzard Traps Hundreds in Remote Karma Valley
A life-threatening blizzard struck the Karma Valley on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest over the weekend, leaving hundreds of hikers, guides, porters and yak herders stranded at high altitude. The storm dumped heavy snow and cut off access paths, trapping groups in their tents and campsites at around 4,200 to 4,900 meters elevation.
Many trekkers described snow piling up fast, tents caving under weight, plunging temperatures, and a desperate struggle against hypothermia.
Rescue Teams Spring Into Action
Authorities launched one of the largest search-and-rescue efforts in the region’s recent memory. Using combined forces of mountain rescue units, local villagers, and support teams, they pushed through deep snow and cleared blocked routes to reach stranded parties.
Early on, about 350 hikers were guided to safety by Sunday, and over the next days, the remainder were evacuated in stages.
Rescue personnel brought essential supplies — food, medicine, heating materials, and oxygen — to hold out those trapped until evacuation was possible.
All Evacuated, Many Safe
By Tuesday evening, all 580 trekkers along with more than 300 local guides, yak herders and support staff had been evacuated to safety, according to official statements.
They were brought to Qudang township and nearby relocation points under government coordination in the Tibet Autonomous Region.
Some rescuers and evacuees noted that traces left by earlier groups (footprints) helped others follow safe paths out of the valley amid the storm’s aftermath.
While most returned without serious injuries, a few required medical treatment for hypothermia and exposure.
Unusual Storm and Broader Disruption
The intensity and timing of the blizzard were described by many as “not normal” for October, catching several trekking groups off guard during a typically mild post-monsoon season.
The Everest scenic area — including the Karma and Rongshar valleys and even Cho Oyu — has been temporarily closed while authorities assess safety and trail conditions.
Elsewhere in western China, the extreme weather triggered snow events, evacuations, and at least one death from hypothermia and altitude sickness in regions affected by the storm.
