World · Malaysia Bureau
Ten Nepali climbers and guides missing after Himlung avalanche
A massive avalanche on Nepal's Himlung peak has left ten climbers and mountain guides unaccounted for, with rescue efforts hampered by severe weather conditions. Search and rescue teams remain on standby as two helicopters await clearance to access the remote mountainous terrain.
LSN Malaysia ·
An avalanche on Himlung peak in Nepal's Himalayas has triggered a major search and rescue operation after ten climbers and guides went missing on the mountain. The incident underscores the ongoing dangers faced by mountaineers attempting to summit peaks in the region, where unpredictable weather and treacherous terrain present significant challenges to both climbers and rescue personnel.
Authorities have mobilised two helicopters and a dedicated search and rescue team to locate the missing individuals. However, adverse weather conditions have prevented aircraft from reaching the avalanche site, limiting rescue efforts to ground-based operations. The exact circumstances surrounding the avalanche and the status of the missing climbers remain unclear pending further investigation.
Nepal's mountaineering community regularly faces hazardous conditions during climbing seasons. Avalanches, altitude-related illnesses, and extreme weather are among the leading causes of mountaineering incidents in the Himalayan region. Officials have indicated that rescue operations will continue once weather conditions improve sufficiently to allow helicopter access to the remote location.
The Himlung peak, located in northern Nepal, is a popular destination for experienced mountaineers. Rescue coordinators are continuing to monitor weather patterns closely, with the hope of launching aerial operations as soon as conditions permit safe helicopter operations in the area.