Hikers caught in a shock blizzard near Mount Everest have spoken of experiencing hypothermia as they battled relentless snowfall, while rescuers continue to evacuate scores of people.
At least one hiker has died and more than 200 are still stranded on Everest's eastern slopes in Tibet, an area popular with climbers and hikers, Chinese state media reported.
Snowfall began on Friday evening and intensified over the weekend. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue workers have been deployed to clear out snow blocking access to the area, which sits at an altitude of more than 4,900m (16,000ft).
Rescuers have guided 350 people to safety in the small township of Qudang. Authorities are in contact with all the hikers who are still trapped.
Nature photographer Dong Shuchang was among hundreds of tourists who flocked to the area during China's Golden Week holiday. He was looking forward to capturing the Himalayan marvel from the Tibetan slopes, when the snowstorm hit just hours after his trek started on Saturday.
The lightning and thunderstorms would not stop. The snowfall was so heavy I could hardly sleep, Mr. Dong explained.
His group had reached an altitude of 4,600m before they decided to turn back. Our windbreakers and raincoats were no match for the snow. We were all drenched, he said, adding that several people in his group of 20 showed signs of hypothermia.
Mr. Dong's escape from the trail was lined with wet snow and falling sleet. Everyone was moving slowly. The route was very slippery. I kept falling because of the ice. They spent the night in a hotel room in Qudang, relying on a generator for electricity before finally receiving help.
Another woman recounted her husband's slow descent from the mountains, revealing that thick snow cover made his retreat extremely difficult. Rescuers faced similar challenges as they attempted to clear pathways through deep snow.
October typically provides clear skies and mild temperatures, attracting many hikers. However, this year's conditions are exceptional, presenting severe risks for those attempting to explore the Everest region.
The situation is compounded by extreme weather across the region; neighboring Nepal has endured torrential rains and flooding, resulting in numerous fatalities and widespread destruction.
