Hikers caught in a shock blizzard near Mount Everest have spoken of experiencing hypothermia as they battled relentless snowfall, while rescuers continue to evacuate scores of people. At least one hiker has died and more than 200 are still stranded on Everest's eastern slopes in Tibet, an area popular with climbers and hikers, Chinese state media reported. Snowfall began on Friday evening and intensified over the weekend. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue workers have been deployed to clear out snow blocking access to the area, which sits at an altitude of more than 4,900m (16,000ft). Rescuers have guided 350 people to safety in the small township of Qudang. Authorities are in contact with all the hikers who are still trapped.
Nature photographer Dong Shuchang was among hundreds of tourists who flocked to the area during China's Golden Week holiday. He was looking forward to capturing the Himalayan marvel from the Tibetan slopes when the snowstorm hit just hours after his trek started on Saturday. The lightning and thunderstorms would not stop. The snowfall was so heavy I could hardly sleep, Mr. Dong explained. His group had reached an altitude of 4,600m before they turned back. Our windbreakers and raincoats were no match for the snow. We were all drenched, he stated, noting that several people in his group showed signs of hypothermia.
His escape from the trail was lined with wet snow and falling sleet, causing slow movement due to extreme slippery conditions. After spending a night in a hotel, where electricity was supported by a generator, they were relieved as the snowstorm finally subsided the next morning. Another hiker, Chen Geshuang, expressed her gratitude for the safe retreat, amidst challenging conditions and deep snow. Stories from refined hikers underscore the dangers of unpredictable weather even in experienced hands, reflecting on how this year's snowfall has been exceptional.
Nature photographer Dong Shuchang was among hundreds of tourists who flocked to the area during China's Golden Week holiday. He was looking forward to capturing the Himalayan marvel from the Tibetan slopes when the snowstorm hit just hours after his trek started on Saturday. The lightning and thunderstorms would not stop. The snowfall was so heavy I could hardly sleep, Mr. Dong explained. His group had reached an altitude of 4,600m before they turned back. Our windbreakers and raincoats were no match for the snow. We were all drenched, he stated, noting that several people in his group showed signs of hypothermia.
His escape from the trail was lined with wet snow and falling sleet, causing slow movement due to extreme slippery conditions. After spending a night in a hotel, where electricity was supported by a generator, they were relieved as the snowstorm finally subsided the next morning. Another hiker, Chen Geshuang, expressed her gratitude for the safe retreat, amidst challenging conditions and deep snow. Stories from refined hikers underscore the dangers of unpredictable weather even in experienced hands, reflecting on how this year's snowfall has been exceptional.
