At 6:00 am on May 21, 2024, I stood atop of the world’s highest peak, for the fourth time, alongside my client and Budhha, our assistant guide. We were happy of reaching the summit, but the journey was far from over.
After summiting, we carefully crossed the Hillary Step. Traffic was moving slowly and just a few meters ahead, something unusual happened- the cornice collapsed. This Everest ice cornice accident was terrifying, as there was a cornice right under us, and it felt like that the mountain was crumbling.
Four climbers ahead of us nearly perished, but they manage to self-rescue, thanks to being clipped onto the rope. Sadly, two climbers are reported death. We attempted to traverse, but it was impossible due to the traffic on the fixed line.
As we stood there, surrounded by climbers running low on oxygen, the situation started to become worse. I knew, we had to do something. I started breaking a new route, allowing the descending traffic to start moving slowly once again, inching towards safety.
Everest Ice Cornice Accident Footage
It was in that moment—amidst the cold, the struggle, and the overwhelming pressure—that I felt a deep sense of pride of becoming certified IFMGA guide. It had prepared me for this very situation, to navigate the chaos, to lead with confidence, and to make a difference when it mattered most.
The Everest summit ridge felt different from my previous ascents. The terrain was treacherous, with soft snow, numerous cornices, and rocky sections covered beneath the snow. The weather station was half buried in snow.
We eventually made it safely to Base Camp, but it was not easy to forget those scary moments. This Everest ice cornice accident was a reminder, that it’s nature who decides. No matter how experienced we are, the mountain has its own will. It can change in an instant, reminding us of our vulnerability and the need for constant respect and caution.
Here’s an article Written by Outside, featuring Everest ice cornice accident.