Summary
A total of 580 hikers, along with local guides and support staff, were rescued after being stranded by a blizzard near Mount Everest in Tibet. The severe snowfall blocked their route during China's Golden Week holiday, but they were guided to safety.
Key Facts
- 580 hikers were stranded near Mount Everest due to a blizzard.
- They were accompanied by 300 local guides and support staff.
- Trekkers reached a township called Qudang for safety.
- A final group of 10 hikers is still on the way but has reached a safe point with supplies.
- The snow trapped hikers at over 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) altitude.
- The blizzard coincided with China's Golden Week, a busy travel time.
- October usually has good weather for hiking in this region.
- Hypothermia was a risk, but rescue teams, including police and volunteers, assisted in the effort.