Chinese rescue teams have safely relocated 350 hikers trapped by a powerful snowstorm on the eastern slopes of Mount Qomolangma — known internationally as Mount Everest — while over 200 others are being guided toward safety, local authorities confirmed on Monday.

The extreme weather struck the Gamagou valley area of Chudeng township in Dingri County, within Tibet’s Xizang Autonomous Region, on Saturday night. The storm hit suddenly and fiercely, trapping hundreds of visitors in the high-altitude wilderness of the Qomolangma National Nature Reserve, one of the most remote and rugged terrains on Earth.

In response, the Dingri County government immediately activated emergency protocols, deploying multiple rescue teams supported by local guides, horses, and yaks — the only viable means of transport in the snow-choked valleys. Teams worked throughout the night to establish communication with stranded groups and escort them to temporary reception points in Chudeng.

As of Monday morning (11:00 a.m. local time), all hikers at those reception centers had been safely relocated to nearby hotels and shelters. Authorities provided them with food, cold-proof clothing, and medical assistance, ensuring that none suffered life-threatening injuries.

“The response was rapid and coordinated,” said Yeshe, a staff member at the Qomolangma Scenic Area administration. “Even in such harsh weather, rescue teams reached the base camps and began clearing roads by Sunday morning. No injuries have been reported.”

Rescue efforts continue to focus on the 55-kilometer-long Gamagou valley, where elevations range from 2,100 to over 5,000 meters. Communication lines remain open with hikers still in the area, and drones are being used to locate small, isolated groups.

By Sunday noon, snow depth in some areas reached one meter, forcing rescuers to clear paths manually while distributing food and water to those awaiting evacuation.

In light of the storm, Dingri County’s Culture and Tourism Bureau announced the temporary closure of several trekking routes and attractions, including the eastern slope trails of Qomolangma, until safety conditions improve.

Officials noted that the snowstorm coincided with China’s “Golden Week” national holiday, when thousands of domestic and foreign tourists visit the Himalayas — contributing to the unusually high number of people affected.

The Qomolangma scenic area has seen a rapid surge in tourism, with over 540,000 visitors recorded in 2024, an 18 percent increase from the previous year. The area is prized for its world-class trekking routes, dramatic scenery, and rare biodiversity — but local authorities have warned that the influx of tourists, combined with unpredictable weather patterns, poses growing risks to both human safety and the fragile ecosystem.

Rescue teams aim to complete all evacuations by Tuesday evening, weather permitting. While conditions are expected to stabilize midweek, forecasters warn of continued cold temperatures and intermittent snow above 4,500 meters.

Authorities have pledged a full review of safety measures for future expeditions and have advised tourists to check official weather and route advisories before entering the Qomolangma region.

“We are grateful that there have been no casualties,” said a local emergency coordinator. “But this storm is a stark reminder of the mountain’s power — and the need for preparation, discipline, and respect for nature’s force.” (ILKHA)