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Rescue operations are actively underway on Mount Everest following a intense blizzard that left nearly 1,000 people trapped at base camps on the eastern side of the peak.

Hundreds Rescued Successfully Amid Unusual Precipitation

Hundreds of trekkers cut off by the blizzard near the east side of the mountain were led to safety by emergency responders on the weekend, as exceptional precipitation hit the Himalayas.

As of Sunday, 350 people had arrived at the small township of the rescue base, while communication had been made with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Holiday Rush Contributed to High Crowds

Visitors to the remote valley of Karma, which leads to the Kangshung east side of Mount Everest, numbered in the hundreds this period, benefiting from an eight-day National Day holiday in the area.

Heavy snow in the valley, which lies at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (over 13,700 feet), started late Friday and continued throughout Saturday.

Continued Operations to Bring Remaining Trekkers to Security

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

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

Unclear Details Over Local Guides and Other Areas

Estimates 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 accounted for.

Remains unknown if trekkers near the northern side of Everest—also in the region—had been affected or not.

Tourist Rush and Entry Suspended

The north face of Everest, due to its easy access by roadway, often attracts many of visitors. This month is a busy period, when skies clear with the conclusion of the monsoon season.

Admission tickets and entry to the entire Everest scenic area were suspended from Saturday, according to notices posted on official channels.

Nearby Area Impacted by Severe Weather

To the southern side of the area, torrential downpours triggered mudslides and flash floods that have blocked roads, destroyed bridges, and killed at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five individuals lost their lives in multiple mudslides in the Ilam eastern region bordering India. Nine people were reported missing after being swept away by rising waters, and three others were killed in lightning strikes elsewhere in the country.