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Ice block stalls hundreds of Everest climbers at base camp
Officials assessing route after serac between base camp and camp one deemed unstable and too risky for climbers
TL;DR
- A large ice block on the route above Mount Everest base camp has delayed climbing attempts.
- The serac between base camp and camp one is unstable and poses a risk to climbers.
- Officials are working with climbers and expedition organizers to assess the situation.
- 410 foreign climbers had permits for the spring climbing season.
- Icefall doctors usually complete the route setup by mid-April.
- Aerial surveys are planned to assess the serac, with concerns about avalanche risk.
- The Khumbu icefall is a dangerous section of the climb known for crevasses and overhanging ice.
- A similar incident in 2014 resulted in the deaths of 16 Sherpa guides due to an avalanche.