Ex-Royal Marine is feared missing after an avalanche on one of the highest mountains in the world
Former Royal Marine and record-breaking mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 climbers feared missing after an avalanche struck Broad Peak in northern Pakistan. The incident has prompted a search operation, though severe altitude, weather and terrain make any rescue difficult.
The avalanche hit the 8,047-metre mountain in the Karakoram range, which is the world’s 12th-highest peak. Purja, who was born in Nepal, led the international group and is known for climbing all 14 of the world’s mountains above 8,000 metres in a record six months and six days; no deaths had been confirmed at the time of reporting.
In short
- Ten climbers, including Nirmal Purja, are missing after a Broad Peak avalanche.
- Rescue efforts face extreme conditions on the 8,047-metre Pakistani mountain.
- No fatalities had been confirmed.
Explained simply
Broad Peak is one of the world's most dangerous mountains. This 8,047-metre peak stands in the Karakoram range in northern Pakistan and is the 12th highest mountain on Earth. Avalanches are a constant hazard at such extreme altitudes, where sudden collapses of ice and snow can be devastating and occur with little warning.
Nirmal Purja is a Nepali mountaineer and former Royal Marine who has gained widespread recognition for his extraordinary climbing achievements. In 2019, he became the fastest person ever to climb all 14 mountains above 8,000 metres, completing this feat in just over six months. His record-breaking success established him as one of the world's most accomplished high-altitude mountaineers.
Rescue operations at extreme altitude present severe logistical and physical challenges. The combination of thin air, severe weather, treacherous terrain and remote location makes it exceedingly difficult for search and rescue teams to reach stranded climbers. Even with significant international resources available, attempts to find and assist people at such heights can take weeks or prove unsuccessful.