Snowstorm Strands Hundreds on Everest

Mount Everest's Chinese-side hiking trails have been closed due to treacherous snowfall and icy conditions, authorities announced Tuesday. The harsh weather, which has stranded hikers before, promises to persist, posing serious risks to adventurers in higher altitudes.

The Zhufeng peak area in Tibet's Dingri county will remain inaccessible until further notice, as the snowfall hampers trail and road conditions. In early October, during China's national holidays—a peak travel period—around 880 people, including 580 hikers and 300 guides, were rescued from altitudes reaching 16,000 feet.

This shutdown underscores the challenges faced by both trekkers and climbers who flock to Everest, straddling the China-Nepal border and rising about 8,850 meters. The closure echoes the national response to unpredictable weather, emphasizing safety over adventure.