KATHMANDU, Nov 4: At least seven people, including five foreign nationals, were killed in an avalanche that struck a group of climbers on Yelung Ri (18,471 feet) in the Rolwaling mountain range of Dolakha district on Monday.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sailendra Thapa, deputy spokesperson for the Armed Police Force (APF), confirmed that seven members of the expedition team lost their lives in the avalanche.
According to Thapa, a total of 15 people had joined the expedition, including three Nepali porters who returned from the base camp before the climb. The avalanche hit the remaining 12 members, leaving seven confirmed dead and five others missing.
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“Three Nepali porters who stayed behind at the base camp were safe. They later descended to Naa village, around four to five hours’ walk away, and informed authorities about the incident,” Thapa told Republica.
Of the deceased, one has been identified as French national Carole Fuchus. The identities of the remaining victims have yet to be confirmed.
Naa Village lies in a remote part of Dolakha with no mobile network coverage and can only be reached after a two-day trek from the nearest motorable road. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as communication challenges and difficult terrain have hampered rescue efforts.
Two rescue helicopters were dispatched toward the site on Monday but were forced to return due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Around 50 personnel from the Nepal Police, Nepali Army, and Armed Police Force have been deployed to the area.
“Only after the rescue teams reach the site can we confirm the exact situation of the climbers and the extent of the damage,” said Biswas Karki, chairman of Gaurishankar Rural Municipality.
Yelung Ri Base Camp lies opposite the Tsho Rolpa glacial lake at an altitude of about 15,030 feet. The route is regarded as one of the most challenging trekking trails in Nepal due to frequent avalanches and unpredictable weather conditions.
