China’s Tibet region authorities have launched large scale rescue efforts after a sudden blizzard on Mount Everest’s eastern slope stranded nearly 1,000 people at high-altitude camps on October 5, 2025. The snowstorm struck at over 4,900 metres, leaving several climbers with hypothermia and collapsing tents under drifts reported to exceed 10 metres. According to Tibet’s Mount Everest Scenic Area staff as cited by HK01, hundreds of villagers and workers have been clearing snow and using bulldozers to reopen blocked passages.

Authorities said some groups were rescued between the evening of October 4 and the early hours of October 5, though many remained trapped. Accounts shared online described worsening conditions from October 3, when snow began and intensified overnight. A climber identified as Mr Sun said he left his 4,950-metre camp on October 4 before the storm sealed the route. He later learnt that Tibet’s Blue Sky Rescue Team had arrived to coordinate emergency operations.

Local media as cited by HK01 reported that the team received a distress call at 5:00 a.m. on October 5, estimating around 1,000 individuals still stranded in several camps. Some were said to be in critical condition due to prolonged exposure. China’s Shigatse authorities confirmed that Tibet’s Dingri County Party Committee and County Government had dispatched teams for support, ensuring supplies were delivered and tourists assisted.

Officials stated that first responders were already providing reception services. The rare October blizzard has highlighted the risks faced by climbers and tourists on Mount Everest, as weather patterns in the Himalayas grow increasingly unpredictable.