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Rescue operations are ongoing on the world's tallest mountain following a severe snowstorm that stranded nearly 1,000 individuals trapped at campsites on the east face of the summit.

Hundreds Rescued Successfully Amid Unusual Precipitation

Numerous hikers stranded by the blizzard near the eastern face of the mountain were safely guided by rescue teams on the weekend, as unusually heavy precipitation hit the Himalayas.

By the weekend, 350 people had arrived at the small township of Qudang, while contact had been established with the remaining 200-plus trekkers.

Peak Season Led to High Crowds

Visitors to the remote valley of the Karma valley, which leads to the Kangshung east side of Mount Everest, totaled several hundred this week, taking advantage of an extended holiday break in the area.

Heavy snow in the region, which sits at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (over 13,700 feet), started late Friday and persisted all day Saturday.

Ongoing Efforts to Bring Remaining Trekkers to Safety

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

Many residents and response units have been deployed to help remove snow blocking access to the region.

Unclear Details Over Support Staff and Other Areas

Reports indicated that close to a thousand individuals had been trapped. Details were unclear whether support staff and other personnel with the hiking groups had been accounted for.

Remains unknown if trekkers near the north face of the mountain—also in the region—had been impacted or not.

Tourist Rush and Access Halted

The northern slope of Mount Everest, due to its convenient approach by paved road, regularly draws many of visitors. This month is a busy period, when weather improves with the end of the Indian monsoon.

Admission tickets and entry to the whole Mount Everest region were halted from Saturday, according to notices posted on local platforms.

Nearby Area Impacted by Severe Weather

To the southern side of the area, heavy rains caused mudslides and flash floods that have closed routes, washed away bridges, and claimed over forty-seven lives since last week.

Thirty-five people died in multiple mudslides in the eastern Ilam district near the Indian border. Nine people were reported missing after being carried off by rising waters, and three more were fatally struck in lightning strikes elsewhere in the country.