Deadly Avalanche Strikes Nepal’s Himalayas as Rescue Teams Search for Missing Expedition Workers

By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | September 28, 2026

KATHMANDU, NEPAL — A powerful avalanche has struck a mountaineering base camp in Nepal’s Himalayan region, leaving several expedition workers missing and prompting a difficult search-and-rescue operation.

The disaster occurred on Sunday, September 27, at Himlung Himal, a 7,126-metre mountain in Nepal’s Manang district near the Tibetan border.

Initial reports indicated that at least ten Nepali climbers and support workers were missing after snow swept through the camp. Subsequent reporting confirmed two deaths and indicated that the number of missing people could be higher.

Snow-covered Himalayan mountain peaks in Nepal

Expedition Workers Caught in Avalanche

The affected personnel were preparing the mountain for international climbing expeditions, including establishing routes, fixing ropes and arranging essential camp facilities.

The Expedition Operators Association Nepal initially reported eight missing people from Himalayan Holidays Nepal and two from Imagine Nepal.

The avalanche struck after several days of persistent rain and heavy snowfall across Nepal’s mountainous regions.

Illustrative image of a Himalayan mountaineering base camp

Severe Weather Complicates Rescue Efforts

Rescue operations have faced significant obstacles because of continuing snowfall, poor visibility and the remote location of the disaster.

Helicopters and ground teams initially struggled to reach the affected camp.

According to Everest Chronicle, a specialist rescue team subsequently reached the mountain. Three people initially reported missing also contacted their families and expedition organisers.

However, uncertainty remains over the full number of people affected, with reports issued at different stages of the emergency providing different figures.

Illustrative image of a mountain rescue team working in snowy conditions

Weather Warnings Issued Before Disaster

The avalanche followed warnings of deteriorating weather across Nepal’s mountain districts.

Several expedition operators had already moved their climbers and support teams to lower elevations because of the risk of heavy snowfall and avalanches.

However, some workers remained at higher camps to prepare for the autumn climbing season.

The incident highlights the dangers faced by local guides and expedition support workers, whose responsibilities often require them to reach high-altitude locations before visiting climbers arrive.

Illustrative image of severe weather over the Himalayan mountains

Authorities Monitor the Situation

Nepal’s Department of Tourism has been gathering information from expedition companies and rescue personnel as efforts continue to establish the full scale of the disaster.

The immediate priority remains locating those still unaccounted for and ensuring that rescue teams can operate safely in difficult mountain conditions.

The casualty figures may change as authorities receive further information from the remote site.