During the ascent of a mountain in northeastern Nepal, at least seven people died, including five foreigners buried by an avalanche. Eight people survived and are being treated in a hospital in Kathmandu.
According to the Seven Summit Treks agency, the accident occurred on Monday at 9:00 local time near the base camp on Jalung Ri mountain, reports BBC.
Rescuers have found two bodies, and are still searching for the remaining five in the snow. They suspect the bodies could be buried three to four meters deep. "The search will likely take quite some time," said agency head Mingma Sherpa.
Among the victims are two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a Frenchman, and two Nepalese guides. The other eight members of the group, who set off about an hour before the avalanche, were rescued. They are being treated in Kathmandu hospital for injuries.
One of the survivors said they called for help for a long time, but unsuccessfully. "If rescuers had arrived earlier, more lives could have been saved," he added.
Police representative Kumar Mahato said that bad weather and logistical difficulties are complicating the rescue, making it hard for rescue helicopters to take off or reach the accident site.
The group aimed to summit the nearby Dolma Khang mountain, which is 6332 meters high. On the day of the accident, they were ascending Jalung Ri at 5630 meters for acclimatization.
In Nepal, a rescue operation is also underway for two Italians who disappeared during the ascent of Panbari mountain in the west of the country. The group consisted of three Italian alpinists and three Nepalese guides. The others have been rescued.
In autumn, Nepal usually has suitable weather conditions for mountaineering, making it popular among alpinists. However, weather can deteriorate quickly, and there is a risk of avalanches. Last week, cyclone Montha hit Nepal, bringing heavy rains, stranding many people in the Himalayas.
Source:
https://www.rtvslo.si/svet/azija-z-oceanijo/snezni-plaz-v-nepalu-usoden-za-sedem-gornikov/762855