Seven climbers killed in Nepal avalanche as rescue operations continue

At least seven climbers, including five foreigners and two Nepalis, have been killed after an avalanche struck the Yalung Ri mountain region in north-eastern Nepal on Monday morning. The deadly incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. local time (03:15 GMT) near the base camp in Dolakha district, according to expedition agency Seven Summit Treks.

Rescue teams have so far recovered two bodies, while five others remain missing and are believed to be buried under 10 to 15 feet of snow. Eight climbers were rescued alive and are now receiving treatment for injuries in Kathmandu. The victims include two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a French national, and two Nepali guides.

Police officials said the climbers had set out for their expedition just over an hour before the avalanche struck. "It will take time to find the remaining bodies," said Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks. A rescue helicopter reached the Na Gaun area of Dolakha, located about five hours on foot from the Yalung Ri base camp, local deputy superintendent of police Gyan Kumar Mahato told the BBC.

One of the injured survivors said that repeated calls for help went unanswered. “Had the rescue arrived on time, more lives could have been saved,” he said. Police and rescuers cited poor weather and logistical challenges, including heavy snow and difficult terrain, as key reasons for delayed operations.

The group had been training on the 5,630m Yalung Ri mountain as part of their acclimatisation before attempting to scale the nearby Dolma Khang peak, which stands at 6,332m (20,774ft).

Meanwhile, rescue efforts continue in western Nepal to locate two Italian climbers, Stefano Farronato and Alessandro Caputo, who went missing while attempting to scale Panbari mountain. Their teammate, 65-year-old Velter Perlino, and three local guides were rescued earlier after being stranded for several days.

Autumn is traditionally one of Nepal’s busiest mountaineering seasons due to clearer skies and milder temperatures. However, recent extreme weather linked to Cyclone Montha has brought heavy rain and snowfall, triggering avalanches and stranding numerous trekkers. Last week, two British and one Irish woman were rescued from the Mustang region after being trapped by snow.