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Avalanche kills seven climbers on Nepal's Yalung Ri mountain
At least seven climbers-five foreigners and two Nepali guides-were killed after an avalanche struck near the base camp of Yalung Ri in north-eastern Nepal on Monday, according to expedition organizers and local authorities.
The disaster occurred at 09:00 local time (03:15 GMT) in Dolakha district, burying climbers under deep snow. Rescuers have recovered two bodies, while five others remain missing, presumed trapped beneath 10-15 feet of snow, said Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks, the agency coordinating the expedition.
Rescue challenges and survivor accounts
Eight injured climbers were airlifted to Kathmandu for medical treatment, but delays in rescue operations may have cost lives, survivors told local media. One climber told The Kathmandu Post, "We called for help repeatedly, but no one came. Had the rescue arrived sooner, more could have been saved."
Gyan Kumar Mahato, deputy superintendent of police in Dolakha, cited poor weather and logistical hurdles-including impassable terrain for helicopters and a five-hour trek to the site-as key obstacles. A rescue helicopter managed to land in Na Gaun, the nearest accessible area, but efforts to recover the remaining bodies continue.
Victims and expedition details
The deceased include two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a French national, and two Nepali guides. The group, en route to summit Dolma Khang (6,332m), had been ascending Yalung Ri (5,630m) as part of their acclimatization process, according to The Kathmandu Post.
Ongoing rescues and weather risks
Separately, searches persist for two Italian climbers-Stefano Farronato and Alessandro Caputo-missing since last week on Panbari mountain in western Nepal. Their companion, Velter Perlino, 65, was rescued earlier, local reports said.
Autumn, typically a peak season for Himalayan expeditions due to stable weather, has seen heightened risks this year. Last week, Cyclone Montha brought heavy snowfall, stranding hikers near Mount Everest and in the Mustang region, where two British and one Irish woman required rescue after days of isolation.
"Supplies and personnel are stretched thin. The terrain is unforgiving, and time is against us."
Local rescue official (unnamed), speaking to BBC Nepali
Climate and safety concerns
Experts warn that erratic weather patterns, including sudden storms and avalanches, are increasingly threatening Nepal's mountaineering industry. Authorities urge climbers to monitor forecasts and delay ascents during unstable conditions.
