"Rescuers have guided more than 350 people to safety after they were stranded by blizzard-like conditions on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest, Chinese state media reported on Sunday. In total, more than 500 people were caught by surprise when unusually heavy snow and rainfall lashed them on the way in the Tingri region of Tibet, one of the main routes to ascend the world's tallest mountain."
"Those rescued on Sunday were taken to the small township of Qudang, on the Tibetan side of the peak, CCTV reported. Some 200 trekkers who remained stranded in treacherous conditions as of Sunday were due to arrive in Qudang in stages under the guidance and assistance of rescuers organised by the local government, CCTV reported."
"It was so wet and cold in the mountains, and hypothermia was a real risk, said Chen Geshuang, who was part of an 18-strong trekking team that made it to Qudang. The weather this year is not normal. The guide said he had never encountered such weather in October. And it happened all too suddenly, Chen told the Reuters news agency."
Unusually heavy snow and rainfall hit the Tingri region of Tibet, catching more than 500 trekkers en route to Mount Everest. Rescuers guided over 350 people to safety, and those brought out on Sunday arrived at the small township of Qudang. Approximately 200 trekkers remained stranded and were scheduled to reach Qudang in stages with assistance from local government-organised rescue teams. Heavy snowfall began Friday evening and persisted through Saturday, prompting suspension of ticket sales and entry to the Everest Scenic Area. Wet, cold conditions raised hypothermia risks for trekkers. Sherpa communities in Nepal are adjusting to more unpredictable Himalayan weather linked to climate change.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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