KATHMANDU: More than 200 hikers remain stranded by a blizzard on the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest, though authorities say all have been contacted.

Chinese state media confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing, with some 350 trekkers already guided to safety.

Heavy snowfall struck the valley leading to Everest’s eastern face over the weekend, trapping hundreds of tourists at the beginning of China’s eight-day Golden Week holiday.

The popular trekking destination is typically crowded with visitors during this period.

Social media footage showed tents buried under snow, while guides described the conditions as unusually severe for early October.

Rescuers have been navigating blizzards and blocked paths to reach stranded groups and escort them to safer areas.