Everest Rescue 2025: Trekkers Trapped by Heavy Snowstorm on Eastern Slopes
During the massive 2025 Everest rescue, over 1,000 hikers were stranded amid a sudden and intense snowstorm on the mountain’s eastern side. Local villagers, yak herders, and guides teamed up to bring the trekkers to safety through harsh conditions.
Sudden Snowstorm Stops Everest Treks in 2025
In early October, just before China’s national holiday, groups of trekkers set off despite weather warnings. Shu Wei, a mountain guide leading one group, grew concerned as the snow deepened. “By 8pm, it was knee-deep and kept falling all night,” he said.
Stranded Trekkers Face Severe Winter Conditions
The heavy snowfall trapped trekkers in their tents for days. Wu Bin, one of the hikers, described snow piling up nearly blocking his tent windows. Guides gathered everyone in a dining tent to stay warm and plan the next steps, preparing for a potentially long delay. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zscUd_G0__U
Yak Herders and Villagers Provide Crucial Support
The following day, trekkers began their slow descent through deep snow. After two kilometers, yak herders arrived with animals to clear a path, speeding up their progress. Villagers along the way offered food, warm drinks, and supplies, providing vital assistance.
Weather Warnings and Controversy Over Trekking Decisions
Forecasters predicted the storm days in advance, causing many climbing groups to turn back and authorities to halt ticket sales and close roads. Still, some trekkers continued, raising concerns about whether officials underestimated the risks during the holiday.
Evacuations Conclude Amid Mixed Outcomes
By midweek, nearly 900 people, including guides and local helpers, were evacuated safely to nearby villages. Tragically, a Taiwanese trekker died from hypothermia and altitude sickness. Officials in Xinjiang stopped 300 hikers from continuing, and Nepal reported no trapped climbers on its side.
