Nearly 1,000 People Trapped on the World's Highest Peak Mountain Sides
Emergency operations are under way on the isolated slopes in Tibet of Everest, where a intense snowstorm has stranded around 1,000 people in temporary shelters on the eastern side of the mountain.
Several hundred residents and response units have been sent to clear out heavy snowfall blocking entry to the region, which rests at an elevation of more than 4,900 metres.
A number of hikers have already been rescued from the dangerous site.
A major snow event commenced on Friday evening and has grown stronger on the east-facing areas of Everest in the Tibetan region, an location popular with adventurers and hikers.
Reports indicate that camping structures had fallen due to the weight of the snow, and some individuals were suffering from exposure.
Entry passes and access to the Everest tourism site have been halted effective Saturday.
The region is experiencing harsh climate, with neighbouring Nepal being hit hard by heavy rains that have led to mudslides and sudden flooding, washing away road bridges and causing the death of at least 47 individuals in the recent two-day period.
In the region, Typhoon Matmo has made landfall, requiring approximately 150k residents to evacuate from their residences.
Mount Everest is the planet's tallest mountain at over 8,849m. While many people try to ascend the peak annually, it is considered an extremely risky expedition.
In recent years, it has been plagued with concerns of overcrowding, environmental concerns, and a series of tragic ascents.
