Mount Everest Strands Today: Blizzard Traps Nearly 1,000 Climbers on Mt Everest as Rescue Efforts Intensify

Massive Blizzard Cuts Off Mount Everest Access

Mount Everest, standing at 8,848 meters, witnessed one of its harshest storms in recent years. The snowstorm blanketed the region above 4,900 meters, collapsing tents and cutting off routes used by climbers and rescue teams. Local authorities in Tibet confirmed that access to the Everest Scenic Area has been suspended until conditions improve.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as climbers rushed to reinforce tents while temperatures plummeted overnight. Some suffered from hypothermia and frostbite before rescue teams could reach them. Officials said the storm’s intensity made helicopter evacuation nearly impossible, forcing rescuers to rely on snowmobiles and ground operations.

Key Facts About the Incident

Rescue Teams Battle Harsh Conditions

Despite the storm, Chinese Blue Sky Rescue teams and local volunteers have successfully moved hundreds of climbers to safer ground. More than 350 people were evacuated to the town of Qudang, while around 200 others remain at higher camps awaiting rescue.

The operation is being hailed as one of the largest emergency responses on the Tibetan side of Mt Everest in a decade. With thick snow covering mountain trails and strong winds continuing, rescue efforts are expected to take several days.

“Every minute matters,” one rescuer said, describing the operation as a race against time to save those trapped at high altitude.

Wider Regional Crisis Hits Nepal and Tibet

The blizzard on Mount Everest comes as Nepal faces deadly floods and landslides caused by torrential rain. Authorities in Kathmandu confirmed that at least 47 people have died in the Ilam district, where entire villages were cut off by swollen rivers and blocked roads.

The extreme weather pattern highlights how unpredictable and interconnected Himalayan conditions have become. What begins as a snowstorm in Tibet often leads to devastating floods across the Nepalese valleys.

Climbing Mount Everest Becomes Riskier Every Year

Climbing Mt Everest has always been a test of endurance and mental strength, but recent seasons show growing challenges. Experts have warned that overcrowding, unpredictable weather, and melting glaciers are making expeditions increasingly hazardous.

Even experienced climbers face the danger of “traffic jams” on steep routes where dozens attempt to summit at once. A sudden weather shift — like the blizzard that strands today’s climbers — can instantly turn a routine ascent into a life-threatening situation.

Mountaineering Achievements and Record Climbs in 2025

This year has seen remarkable feats on Mount Everest despite the challenges. British mountaineer Kenton Cool achieved his 19th successful summit, breaking his own record for the most climbs by a non-Sherpa. Meanwhile, Polish skier Andrzej Bargiel made history by skiing down the mountain without bottled oxygen — a daring first that stunned the climbing community.

These achievements underline both the allure and the peril of Everest. The same mountain that inspires courage and ambition also reminds the world of nature’s immense and unpredictable power.

Permit Hikes and Future of Everest Expeditions

In response to overcrowding and environmental concerns, Nepal raised the cost of climbing permits this year by more than 35%, bringing the standard permit price to around $15,000. Officials hope the increase will help manage the number of climbers and improve safety standards.

Yet, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent, many wonder whether regulation alone can make the Everest experience safer. The latest disaster that strands climbers today may reignite the debate about sustainable climbing and the future of expeditions on the world’s highest peak.