Nearly 1,000 people were stranded on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest following a sudden blizzard that blocked access roads and collapsed tents over the weekend, Chinese state media reported on Sunday. The storm, which began Friday evening and continued through Saturday, dumped heavy snow across the region, creating dangerous conditions for climbers and trekkers.

Local authorities have launched a major rescue operation, deploying hundreds of villagers and emergency personnel to clear the snow at altitudes above 4,900 meters (16,000 feet). Teams are working tirelessly to reach stranded campers, many of whom are at risk due to freezing temperatures and strong winds.

Officials reported that some campers are already showing signs of hypothermia, highlighting the dangers of extreme weather on the world’s highest peak. The rapid onset of blizzards on Everest can turn a popular trekking adventure into a life-threatening situation within hours.

With a summit at 8,849 meters, Mount Everest attracts thousands of climbers and adventurers every year. Despite its popularity, the mountain remains highly unpredictable and dangerous, especially during the winter season, when sudden storms can trap even experienced mountaineers.