Tragic Avalanche on Yalung Ri Claims Seven Lives in Nepal
Published 3 November 2025
Highlights
- An avalanche on Yalung Ri mountain in Nepal has claimed the lives of seven climbers, including five foreigners and two Nepali guides.
- The incident occurred at 09:00 local time on Monday, with rescue operations hampered by poor weather conditions.
- Eight climbers were rescued and are receiving treatment in Kathmandu, while five bodies remain buried under snow.
- The climbers were acclimatizing on Yalung Ri before attempting the nearby Dolma Khang peak.
- Autumn is a popular climbing season in Nepal, but recent severe weather, including Cyclone Montha, has increased risks.
-
Rewritten Article
Tragic Avalanche on Yalung Ri Claims Seven Lives in Nepal
A devastating avalanche on Yalung Ri mountain in Nepal has resulted in the deaths of seven climbers, including five foreign nationals and two Nepali guides. The tragedy unfolded at 09:00 local time on Monday, as the group was preparing for an ascent of the nearby Dolma Khang peak. The avalanche struck near the base camp in the Dolakha district, a region known for its challenging Himalayan climbing conditions.
Rescue Efforts and Challenges
Rescue operations have been significantly hindered by adverse weather, with helicopters unable to reach the site due to snowstorms and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, eight climbers were successfully rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment in Kathmandu. However, the bodies of five climbers remain buried under an estimated 10-15 feet of snow, according to Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks.
Victims and Nationalities
The deceased climbers include two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a French national, and two Nepali guides. Initial reports from local media suggested different nationalities, but these have since been clarified. The group had embarked on their climb as part of an acclimatization schedule, a common practice for those attempting higher peaks in the region.
Weather and Seasonal Risks
Nepal's autumn climbing season, typically favored for its clearer weather, has been marred by severe conditions this year. Cyclone Montha recently brought heavy rain and snowfall, exacerbating the risks for climbers in the Himalayas. The Yalung Ri peak, standing at 5,600 meters, is often considered suitable for less experienced climbers, but the unpredictable weather has proven perilous.
Separate Incident on Panbari Mountain
In a separate incident, the bodies of two Italian climbers missing on Panbari mountain have been recovered. The climbers, Stefano Farronato and Alessandro Caputo, were part of a group that became stranded due to heavy snowfall. Rescue efforts managed to save one Italian climber and a sherpa, but the harsh conditions claimed the lives of the other two.
-
Scenario Analysis
The recent avalanche on Yalung Ri highlights the inherent dangers of Himalayan climbing, particularly during periods of severe weather. As rescue operations continue, there is a pressing need for improved safety protocols and timely response mechanisms to prevent future tragedies. Experts suggest that climbers should be better prepared for sudden weather changes, and authorities may need to reassess the issuance of climbing permits during volatile seasons. The incidents also underscore the importance of international cooperation in rescue efforts, as climbers from various countries continue to flock to Nepal's peaks.
A devastating avalanche on Yalung Ri mountain in Nepal has resulted in the deaths of seven climbers, including five foreign nationals and two Nepali guides. The tragedy unfolded at 09:00 local time on Monday, as the group was preparing for an ascent of the nearby Dolma Khang peak. The avalanche struck near the base camp in the Dolakha district, a region known for its challenging Himalayan climbing conditions.
Rescue Efforts and Challenges
Rescue operations have been significantly hindered by adverse weather, with helicopters unable to reach the site due to snowstorms and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, eight climbers were successfully rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment in Kathmandu. However, the bodies of five climbers remain buried under an estimated 10-15 feet of snow, according to Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks.
Victims and Nationalities
The deceased climbers include two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a French national, and two Nepali guides. Initial reports from local media suggested different nationalities, but these have since been clarified. The group had embarked on their climb as part of an acclimatization schedule, a common practice for those attempting higher peaks in the region.
Weather and Seasonal Risks
Nepal's autumn climbing season, typically favored for its clearer weather, has been marred by severe conditions this year. Cyclone Montha recently brought heavy rain and snowfall, exacerbating the risks for climbers in the Himalayas. The Yalung Ri peak, standing at 5,600 meters, is often considered suitable for less experienced climbers, but the unpredictable weather has proven perilous.
Separate Incident on Panbari Mountain
In a separate incident, the bodies of two Italian climbers missing on Panbari mountain have been recovered. The climbers, Stefano Farronato and Alessandro Caputo, were part of a group that became stranded due to heavy snowfall. Rescue efforts managed to save one Italian climber and a sherpa, but the harsh conditions claimed the lives of the other two.
What this might mean
The recent avalanche on Yalung Ri highlights the inherent dangers of Himalayan climbing, particularly during periods of severe weather. As rescue operations continue, there is a pressing need for improved safety protocols and timely response mechanisms to prevent future tragedies. Experts suggest that climbers should be better prepared for sudden weather changes, and authorities may need to reassess the issuance of climbing permits during volatile seasons. The incidents also underscore the importance of international cooperation in rescue efforts, as climbers from various countries continue to flock to Nepal's peaks.
