This time of year is peak visiting season for Mount Everest. However, this year, it was met with tragedy and fear. China was celebrating their annual Mid-Autumn Festival. This is an 8-day festival celebrating their National Day. This festival brings many to celebrate and hike the great Mount Everest.

The weather is typically calmer, explaining why this is usually peak season. However, this year, it was met with extreme snow, making it freezing and wet.

On the evening of October 3rd, snowfall began. This snowfall would trap almost 1,000 people on the mountain even through today Wednesday, October 8th. Local governments begin coordinating rescue efforts, keeping in contact with the hikers.

Hundreds gathered to help rescue hikers. Starting Sunday, teams began bringing hikers down in groups. They were brought down and given warm tea and shelter from local villagers. It’s been said that while they were waiting, hypothermia was a real concern.

There have been casualties reported, but no fatalities yet. There are still approximately 10 stuck on the mountain waiting for rescue.

The precipitation spike has even been felt by neighboring Nepal with flooding causing fatalities. Many locals have stated their shock with the weather, stating how it is usually calm around this time of year.

The local government is still making announcements as updates come in. Along with this, the tourism scene for the mountain has been suspended as tickets are not being sold until further notice.

This story is still currently developing.