Terrifying Mount Everest rescue after man plunges into 6,000m icy crevasse
The man was wedged between the ice and buried waist-deep in snow.
Video footage shows the incredible rescue of a man who slipped into an icy crevasse on Mount Everest, with rescuers saying he's lucky to be alive after the terrifying fall.
The sherpa had fallen more than 60 metres into the 6000-metre narrow crack in the ice but was miraculously pulled to safety unharmed by a team of professionals.
The footage was shared online by the rescuer and professional mountaineer Gesman Tamang earlier this month which shows the man up to his waist in snow wedged between the ice.
"With a dedicated team working together, we were able to successfully execute a life-saving rescue of a Sherpa who fell 60 meters below into a crevasse between Everest Camp 1 and Camp 2," Gesman posted on Instagram alongside the clip. "It’s a miracle that this man survived falling into a crevasse like this."
The mountaineer said the rescue team's "timely response and teamwork" made it possible to get the climber out safely. However, the man's "strength and resilience played a significant role in his survival" too.
Rising Mount Everest death toll
Last month, an Australian Climber shared a video detailing the grim reality of the popular yet dangerous climb, admitting he discovered a total of three dead bodies during his descent down the mountain as the death toll on Mount Everest continues to soar.
During the 2023 season, 478 permit numbers have been issued by the Nepal government — the highest number for one season and 17 people have been declared dead (12 people reported dead and five still missing, but presumed dead by local media).
Reuters reported it is the deadliest year since 18 died in 2015 when an earthquake triggered an avalanche. While there are several factors at play for the fatalities, the main reason is attributed to bad weather, followed by inexperienced climbers.
In another video, Gesman said, "many brave rescues happen on Everest every climbing season" — but it's not just foreign climbers as local sherpas can run into trouble too.
"While rescues of clients and foreign climbers capture public attention, we should not overlook the Sherpa rescues that happen behind the scenes," he said. "These stories remind us of the sacrifices and risks taken by the mountain workers who make Everest expeditions possible".
Aussie climber's last text to friend before dying on Everest
Family's quest to retrieve Aussie climber's body months after death
Reaction to 'terrifying' rescue
Social media users were quick to applaud the Gesman and the rescuers for their bravery and quick-thinking.
"That looks terrifying! Wow, what a lucky escape and brilliant rescue," one said. "I am so glad the rescue was successful and I hope the Sherpa is doing well," wrote another.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
