What Happened in the Avalanche on Yalung Ri Mountain?
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Synopsis
A devastating avalanche on Yalung Ri Mountain has claimed the lives of three climbers, including two Nepali nationals and one foreigner. The incident occurred during an ascent by a group of twelve climbers. As rescue operations face challenges due to bad weather, the search for the missing continues.
Key Takeaways
- Three climbers died in an avalanche on Yalung Ri Mountain.
- The group consisted of 12 mountaineers.
- Rescue operations are being delayed by bad weather.
- Four climbers remain missing.
- A helicopter is ready to assist if weather permits.
Kathmandu, Nov 3 (NationPress) At least three climbers -- two Nepali nationals and one foreigner -- lost their lives after being struck by an avalanche on Yalung Ri Mountain, a prominent peak located in the Dolakha district of northeastern Nepal, according to police reports.
The tragic event took place on Monday morning, approximately one-and-a-half hours of hiking above the base camp of the 5,630-metre-high mountain.
The deceased were part of a larger group consisting of 12 mountaineers who were on their way from the base camp to summit the peak.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Gyan Kumar Mahato, who heads the Dolakha Police, confirmed to IANS, "As reported by some porters from the same expedition team, two Nepali nationals and a foreigner were killed in this incident."
"Currently, four foreigners are still trapped in the avalanche, while five others have managed to return to the base camp," he added.
Authorities indicated that they are yet to reach the incident site due to the region's remoteness and inclement weather.
Local officials noted that while a helicopter was dispatched, poor weather conditions hindered the rescue efforts.
The avalanche struck near the Yalung Ri area, situated beneath the Gaurishankar and Rolwaling mountain ranges within Gaurishankar Rural Municipality–9.
Authorities reported that rescue operations to evacuate the injured and find the missing climbers have been hampered by ongoing adverse weather.
Mahato mentioned that a rescue attempt is scheduled for Tuesday morning.
Narayan Prasad Risal, the Dolakha Chief District Officer, stated that a clearer picture of the missing climbers would emerge only on Tuesday once rescue teams are able to reach the site.
He added that a helicopter is stationed in the nearby Na Gaun and will be utilized on Tuesday morning if weather conditions allow.
Ground support from the Nepal Police, Nepal Army, and Armed Police Force is also en route to the location.
Point of View
This unfortunate incident highlights the inherent risks involved in mountaineering, particularly in remote and unpredictable terrains like the Himalayas. The safety of climbers should always be a priority, and we must ensure that effective rescue operations are in place for such emergencies.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many climbers were affected by the avalanche?
At least three climbers, comprising two Nepali nationals and one foreigner, died in the avalanche.
Where did the avalanche occur?
The avalanche struck on Yalung Ri Mountain, located in the Dolakha district of northeastern Nepal.
What is being done to rescue the missing climbers?
Rescue operations are planned, but have been hindered by adverse weather conditions.
How many climbers are still missing?
Four climbers are reportedly still trapped under the avalanche.
What challenges are rescue teams facing?
Rescue teams are facing challenges due to the remoteness of the area and ongoing bad weather.
