In brief
As a severe blizzard struck the Everest region, hikers shared harrowing experiences of battling hypothermia and treacherous conditions. Hundreds remain trapped, prompting widespread rescue efforts as at least one hiker has died. Eyewitness accounts highlight the challenges faced by climbers during this peak season of Chinese tourism.
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 decided to turn back. Our windbreakers and raincoats were no match for the snow. We were all drenched, he said, adding that several people in his group of 20 showed signs of hypothermia.The region is facing extreme weather, with neighboring Nepal experiencing torrential rains and floods that killed at least 47 people. Hundreds of hikers are reminded of the dangers that can occur amid unpredictable conditions during what is usually a pleasant hiking season.
