What Happened to the Seven Missing Italian Climbers in Nepal?

A tragic situation is unfolding in Nepal, where seven Italian climbers are currently reported missing after attempting to scale the Dolma Khang peak, which stands at 6,332 metres (20,774 feet) in Dolakha district. Following severe weather, including avalanches and storms, three other Italian climbers have already been confirmed dead, prompting urgent search and rescue efforts. The Italian government is coordinating with Nepali authorities as the rescue operation continues.

Last updated: 04 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of now, the search for the seven missing Italian climbers is ongoing, with officials confirming that rescue teams are actively searching the Dolma Khang base camp area. The situation has been complicated by recent adverse weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and avalanches that have impacted climbing activities across the region. The Italian authorities have deployed a senior diplomat from India to liaise with local officials and coordinate search efforts in Nepal.

Key takeaways

Seven Italian climbers are missing in Nepal after an attempt to summit Dolma Khang peak.
Three Italian climbers have been confirmed dead due to an avalanche this week.
Adverse weather has significantly hampered rescue operations, with reports of further avalanches.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline of events leading up to the current situation:

28 October 2023: A climbing group, including Italian climbers, goes missing while attempting to scale Panbari peak due to heavy snowfall.
30 October 2023: An avalanche strikes the Dolma Khang area, leading to the deaths of three Italian climbers.
2 November 2023: Reports emerge that seven Italian climbers are missing, including Marco Di Marcello and Markus Kircheler, who were last known to be in the Yalung Ri area.
3 November 2023: The Italian foreign ministry confirms the deaths of three climbers and the missing status of seven others in a statement.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent updates indicate that a senior Italian diplomat has arrived in Kathmandu to assist with the situation. Furthermore, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the exact number of missing and deceased climbers, complicating the search efforts.

What was already established

Prior to the latest developments, it was known that three Italian climbers had died in an avalanche near Dolma Khang, while efforts were underway to locate the missing climbers. The adverse weather conditions, triggered by Cyclone Montha, had been well-documented, creating hazardous conditions in the region.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK consumers, the ongoing situation may not have immediate implications, but it highlights the risks associated with adventure tourism, especially in regions prone to natural disasters. Those with travel plans to Nepal or similar regions should stay informed about safety advisories and weather conditions.

Businesses and jobs

The impact on the local tourism sector is significant, as the climbing season is a crucial time for local guides and tour operators. Increased scrutiny on safety protocols may arise following this incident, potentially affecting business operations in the adventure tourism industry.

Policy and regulation

In response to these incidents, the Nepalese government may need to reevaluate its regulations surrounding climbing permits and safety measures for expeditions. Upcoming consultations may focus on improving safety standards for climbers in the Himalayas in light of the recent tragedies.

Numbers that matter

6,332 metres: The height of the Dolma Khang peak where climbers are missing.
3: The number of confirmed Italian climber fatalities due to an avalanche this week.
7: The number of Italian climbers currently reported missing in the Dolma Khang area.

Definitions and jargon buster

Avalanche: A mass of snow, ice, and rocks falling rapidly down a mountainside, often triggered by heavy snowfall or other weather events.
Base camp: A temporary camp used as a starting point for climbing expeditions, typically located at a lower elevation.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The immediate focus will remain on locating the missing climbers and recovering those who have perished. Rescue operations will continue, with updates expected from local authorities and the Italian foreign ministry.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the aftermath of this tragedy, it is likely that there will be discussions about improving safety measures for climbers in Nepal. The government may introduce stricter regulations and better support for search and rescue operations.

Signals to watch

Updates from the Nepalese government regarding the status of search and rescue efforts.
Statements from the Italian foreign ministry on the condition and whereabouts of the missing climbers.
Weather reports and forecasts affecting the Himalayan region.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about local weather conditions if planning to travel to mountainous regions.
Consider travel insurance that covers adventure activities.
Follow local authorities' advice regarding safety and travel restrictions.

Don’t

Don’t underestimate the risks associated with climbing and trekking in high-altitude areas.
Don’t ignore emergency protocols and safety measures outlined by local guides.

Checklist

Check travel advisories before planning any trips to Nepal.
Ensure climbing gear is appropriate for high-altitude conditions.
Establish a communication plan and share it with family or friends.
Review and understand the evacuation plans of your trekking agency.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Conflicting reports regarding the number of missing climbers and the exact circumstances of their disappearance complicate the situation. Additionally, the weather remains a significant risk factor, with further snowfall and avalanches possible. The situation is fluid, and updates may vary as information comes in from rescue teams on the ground.

Bottom line

The tragic events in Nepal serve as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with high-altitude climbing. For those involved, the focus remains on recovery and rescue, while for others, it highlights the need for caution when engaging in adventure tourism, particularly in hazardous environments.

FAQs

What is the Dolma Khang peak?

The Dolma Khang peak is a mountain located in the Dolakha district of Nepal, with an elevation of 6,332 metres (20,774 feet).

What caused the recent fatalities among climbers in Nepal?

The fatalities were primarily caused by an avalanche that struck near Dolma Khang peak, compounded by severe weather conditions in the region.

What is being done to locate the missing climbers?

Rescue teams are actively searching the Dolma Khang base camp area, and the Italian government is coordinating efforts with Nepali authorities to locate the missing climbers.