BREAKING: Local authorities have just announced the closure of a popular hiking area on Mount Everest in China’s Tibet region due to severe snowfall and dangerous icy conditions. The Zhufeng Peak, located in Dingri County, will remain off-limits until further notice, according to tourism officials’ statement released earlier today.
This urgent measure follows a harrowing incident in early October when 880 people were trapped for days on the mountain after a heavy snowstorm struck during China’s national holidays, a peak season for tourism. The closure aims to prevent further incidents as significant snowfall and icy conditions are forecasted to persist into Wednesday.
The local weather service has warned that even moderate snowfall can severely impact trail and road conditions, posing risks for hikers and climbers at higher altitudes. In the previous incident, rescuers worked tirelessly to assist 580 hikers, along with 300 guides and other staff, stranded at an altitude of 4,900 meters (16,000 feet).
Authorities in Dingri took swift action to temporarily shut down the Zhufeng tourist area after the emergency, underscoring the potential hazards of high-altitude travel during adverse weather conditions. The annual influx of trekkers and climbers to Mount Everest, known as Mount Qomolangma in Tibetan, highlights both the allure and risks of this towering peak, which reaches an elevation of approximately 8,850 meters (29,000 feet).
As conditions remain perilous, officials are urging all would-be visitors to reconsider their plans and remain vigilant. The situation is still developing, and updates will follow as authorities continue to monitor weather patterns and assess the safety of the area.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this critical situation.
