(MENAFN) A deadly snowstorm that swept across Tibet and Qinghai provinces over the weekend has left at least one hiker dead and hundreds more awaiting rescue, according to multiple Chinese media outlets on Monday.

The powerful blizzard struck unexpectedly, trapping nearly 1,000 people and damaging infrastructure across high-altitude trekking routes, including the eastern approaches to Mount Everest.

A state broadcaster confirmed that a hiker succumbed to hypothermia and altitude sickness on Sunday in the Laohugou region of Qinghai province. Laohugou, which lies more than 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, has become the focus of intense rescue operations.

Rescue teams have already evacuated 137 individuals from the area, all reported to be in stable condition. Separately, 350 trekkers caught at the base camp on Everest’s eastern slope have reached a designated rescue point safely.

Authorities have also managed to establish communication with over 200 others, who are expected to be brought to safety soon.

Efforts continue with urgency as over 300 rescuers, supported by two drones, navigate harsh conditions. Ongoing snowfall is severely hampering progress, making the search and rescue mission, in the words of officials, “very challenging.”

Hundreds more hikers remain stranded in remote high-altitude zones, with rescue operations expected to extend into the coming days.

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