Hundreds of tourists have been left stranded on Mount Everest following a huge snowstorm.
In a race against time, a mammoth search operation, involving hundreds of local rescue teams, was launched earlier on Saturday as emergency teams attempt to reach the campsites, all of which are 16,000ft above ground.
The teams have joined efforts with locals to assist with clearing the path, although the devastating weather conditions have caused some of the climbers' tents to collapse.
So far, officials have not yet confirmed any deaths from the catastrophic event. Some tourists have been able to be brought down, a report has claimed.
Hundreds of people have been stranded on Mt Everest after a freak snowstorm
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However, some have already fallen victim to the freezing conditions, catching hypothermia as temperatures plummet in the region.
The snowfall started on Friday night and has persisted throughout Saturday. Since then, officials have halted ticket sales and entry to the Everest Scenic Area.
Similarly intense weather conditions over the border in Nepal have caused landslides and flash floods, leaving at least 47 dead.
No deaths have yet been confirmed due to the snowstorm
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