Saturday, March 29, 2025
Tragedy in Nepal: Avalanche on Yalung Ri Peak Kills 7 Climbers, Including Americans and a Canadian
A devastating avalanche struck Nepal’s Yalung Ri Peak in the Dolakha district on Monday morning, claiming the lives of seven mountaineers and leaving several others injured or missing. The tragedy occurred in the Rolwaling Valley region, around 5,630 meters above sea level.
Location: Base camp of Yalung Ri Peak (5,630m), Rolwaling Valley, Dolakha District, Nepal
Time: Around 9:00 a.m. (local time) on Monday
Event: A massive section of ice and snow broke off and fell onto a 15-member climbing team headed toward Gaurishankar and Yalung Ri.
According to local officials, the confirmed casualties and missing include:
| Status | Count | Nationality |
|---|---|---|
| Deceased | 7 | 3 Americans, 1 Canadian, 1 Italian, 2 Nepalese |
| Injured | 4 | (Details awaited) |
| Missing | 4 | (Rescue ongoing) |
Ninggeli Sherpa, the local ward chairman, said rescue efforts were delayed due to multiple factors:
Restricted Area: The avalanche site lies within a restricted region, causing delays in helicopter flight approvals.
Severe Weather: Poor visibility and bad weather conditions hindered the approach of rescue teams from the Nepal Army, Police, and Armed Police Force (APF).
Current Status: Helicopter-supported search and rescue operations continue to locate the missing climbers.
Yalung Ri Peak, known for its scenic but treacherous terrain, is among Nepal’s most challenging mountain zones.
Hazard: Frequent avalanches and snow slides make it one of the most dangerous peaks for climbers.
Permits: Special trekking permits are required, and the area usually attracts foreign expedition teams rather than local climbers.
Officials have cautioned that unpredictable weather and fragile ice formations in the region continue to pose significant risks to ongoing rescue efforts.
