Avalanche on Yalung Ri Himal Claims Three Lives, Eight Missing

A tragic avalanche struck a climbing expedition on the Yalung Ri Himal mountain in Nepal, resulting in the deaths of three climbers and leaving eight others missing. The incident occurred on March 25, 2024, when the avalanche descended on the mountain, which reaches an elevation of 5,630 meters (18,470 feet) in the Dolakha district, northeast of Kathmandu.

According to police official Gyan Kumar Mahato, among those missing are five foreign nationals. The nationalities of the deceased and the missing climbers have yet to be confirmed. Four climbers suffered injuries during the incident and were promptly evacuated to a nearby village for medical treatment.

Efforts to locate the missing climbers are ongoing, with search operations being conducted both by ground teams and by helicopter. Mahato stated, “We have also dispatched ground search-and-rescue teams from the army and police and are awaiting developments.”

Details on Yalung Ri Himal and Search Operations

The Yalung Ri mountain is situated in the Rolwaling Valley, known for its challenging terrain featuring a combination of rock, ice, and snow. Climbing in this region requires significant experience due to unpredictable weather and treacherous conditions.

In response to the avalanche, local authorities have mobilized resources to aid in the search effort. The police, along with army personnel, are actively involved in the operation, hoping to locate the missing individuals as soon as possible. The area has witnessed climbing activities for years, drawing both local and international adventurers seeking to conquer its peaks.

As the search continues, the focus remains on the safety and recovery of those affected by this unfortunate event. The situation is evolving, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.