Local team effort enables evacuation of hikers from Qomolangma

Professional guides, villagers and police joined forces on Saturday to ensure the safe evacuation of hundreds of hikers who had been trapped by a snowstorm on the eastern slopes of Mount Qomolangma in China's Xizang autonomous region.

"Many had planned their trip long in advance, investing time and resources, so they still set off when forecasts suggested snowfall within a manageable range," a guide called Kyizom said.

Chen Ge, a hiker, recalled that forecasts predicted 10 to 40 centimeters of snow for Qomolangma, which is known as Mount Everest in the West, "but it turned out to be over a meter. By morning, half of the tents were buried."

Heavy snow and thunderstorms hit camps at altitudes above 4,000 meters on Saturday night. At Cuoxuerenma camp, guide Shu Wei's 18-member team, including six members of staff, endured a sleepless night as snow weighed down their tents.

On Sunday morning, he ordered an immediate descent, cutting trails through knee- and waist-deep snow, with professional guides positioned at the front, middle and rear. Their line was soon joined by more than 200 others from the camp, including hikers, fellow guides and local caravan.

With yak herders stamping paths, the group crossed a 5,000-meter pass and reached roadside villages by evening, where villagers and police offered hot drinks and food.

At Xianong pasture camp, Kyizom's team held out through the night, clearing snow from tents to reduce the risk of collapse before retreating on Sunday. They allowed several independent hikers to join the team and shared supplies, while stressing to them that such treks are unsafe without professional support.

The group reached Qudang township in Dingri county the same day, where rescue teams and villagers offered supplies such as instant noodles and hot water.

The guides emphasized the need for preparation, reliable equipment and awareness of high-altitude weather.

"The mountains will always be there, but safety must come first," Shu said.