As the latest spring/summer figures from the Himalayan Database show, the year 2023 is likely to go down in history with a sad record: never before have so many people died on the world's highest mountain as this year.
This spring, 50 expeditions attempted to climb Mount Everest with their customers. 656 people reached the 8849 meter high summit. 18 people have died trying to climb the highest of the 14 eight-thousanders. According to the Himalayan Database, this is more than ever before.
In view of the 479 permits issued for foreign mountaineers and the associated intensive level of support from guides and porters, it became apparent that well over 1000 people would attempt the summit this season.
A crazy number given the huge traffic jams and queues that have almost become normal during good weather windows - for example at the famous Hillary Step.
Of the 18 people who had an accident in the spring season, three died in an ice fall in the notorious Khumbu Icefall. The Himalayan Database lists acute mountain sickness (AMS), falling or disappearances as the cause of the remaining 15 deaths.
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Credits: Cover picture @ifmga_guide_gurung_ashish