A severe avalanche incident in north-eastern Nepal has resulted in the tragic deaths of seven climbers. The disaster unfolded near the base camp of Yalung Ri mountain on Monday, impacting a group of climbers including both foreign nationals and Nepali guides. Officials confirmed the grim toll, with five international climbers and two local guides losing their lives in the snow slide. The avalanche struck around 9:00 AM, trapping several individuals beneath a substantial snow cover.
Emergency services are actively engaged in search operations for the remaining five missing climbers, feared to be buried deep under the snow. Eight injured climbers were rescued and have been transferred to a hospital in Kathmandu for treatment. The deceased group comprised individuals from Italy, Canada, Germany, and France, alongside their two Nepali guides.
Rescue operations were significantly hampered by the remote location and challenging weather conditions, according to local authorities. Helicopters struggled to reach the site effectively. Accounts from survivors highlight concerns about the response time of rescue teams, with suggestions that an earlier arrival might have led to a better outcome. The expedition was undertaking acclimatization for the higher Dolma Khang peak, incorporating Yalung Ri into their plan.