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Rescue operations are actively underway on the world's tallest mountain following a intense blizzard that stranded nearly 1,000 people trapped at base camps on the eastern side of the peak.

Hundreds Rescued Successfully Amid Heavy Snowfall

Hundreds of trekkers stranded by the blizzard near the eastern face of the mountain were led to safety by rescue teams on the weekend, as exceptional snow and rain hit the Himalayan region.

As of Sunday, three hundred and fifty individuals had arrived at the small township of Qudang, while contact had been made with the other two hundred hikers.

Peak Season Led to High Visitor Numbers

Visitors to the remote valley of Karma, which leads to the Kangshung east side of Mount Everest, totaled several hundred this period, benefiting from an extended holiday break in the region.

Snowfall in the valley, which sits at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (13,779 feet), started late Friday and continued throughout Saturday.

Ongoing Efforts to Bring Remaining Trekkers to Safety

The other hikers are expected to arrive Qudang in phases under the support and direction of emergency teams organised by the local government.

Hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams have been sent to help clear pathways blocking access to the area.

Uncertainty Over Local Guides and Other Areas

Reports indicated that nearly 1,000 people had been stranded. It was not specified whether local guides and other personnel with the hiking groups had been located.

It was also unclear if trekkers near the north face of Everest—also in the area—had been impacted or not.

Peak Season and Access Suspended

The north face of Everest, due to its convenient approach by roadway, often attracts large numbers of tourists. This month is a busy period, when skies clear with the conclusion of the Indian monsoon.

Ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest scenic area were suspended from Saturday, according to announcements posted on official channels.

Neighboring Region Impacted by Heavy Rains

To the southern side of the area, heavy rains caused landslides and flash floods that have closed routes, washed away bridges, and killed at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five people lost their lives in multiple mudslides in the Ilam eastern region near the Indian border. Nine people were reported missing after being carried off by flood waters, and three more were killed in lightning strikes in other parts of the nation.