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Emergency efforts are actively underway on the world's tallest mountain following a severe snowstorm that stranded nearly 1,000 people trapped at base camps on the east face of the peak.

Several Hundred Rescued Successfully Amid Unusual Snowfall

Hundreds of trekkers cut off by the blizzard near the east side of the mountain were safely guided by rescue teams on Sunday, as exceptional snow and rain pummelled the Himalayan region.

By the weekend, three hundred and fifty individuals had arrived at the small township of Qudang, while communication had been made with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Peak Season Contributed to High Visitor Numbers

Tourists in the remote valley of the Karma valley, which leads to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, numbered in the hundreds this period, benefiting from an extended holiday break in the region.

Heavy snow in the valley, which lies at an average altitude of 4,200 meters (over 13,700 feet), started late Friday and continued throughout Saturday.

Ongoing Efforts to Rescue Others to Security

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

Many residents and rescue teams have been sent to help remove snow blocking access to the area.

Uncertainty Over Support Staff and North Face

Estimates indicated that close to a thousand individuals 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 hikers near the northern side of the mountain—also in the area—had been affected or not.

Peak Season and Entry Halted

The northern slope of Mount Everest, due to its convenient approach by paved road, often attracts many of tourists. This month is a peak season, when skies clear with the conclusion of the Indian monsoon.

Ticket sales and access to the whole Mount Everest region were halted from the weekend, according to notices posted on local platforms.

Nearby Area Impacted by Severe Weather

To the south of the region, heavy rains caused landslides and flash floods that have blocked roads, washed away bridges, and killed at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five people lost their lives in separate landslides in the Ilam eastern region near the Indian border. Nine individuals were reported missing after being swept away by rising waters, and three others were killed in lightning strikes in other parts of the nation.