Ten climbers including Nirmal Purja missing after Broad Peak avalanche
Mountaineer Nirmal Purja, a renowned Nepalese climber known for his record‑breaking ascents, is among those feared missing after an avalanche struck Broad Peak in Pakistan. The incident occurred during a climbing expedition that included several international climbers and local guides. According to the Pakistan Alpine Club, the avalanche triggered by a sudden storm and heavy snowfall caused significant damage to the base camp and left several team members, including Purja, unaccounted for.
The club released a statement confirming that rescue operations were underway, but the harsh terrain and continuing adverse weather conditions have hampered search efforts. Local authorities and international mountaineering bodies have called for additional resources and coordination to locate the missing climbers. The incident underscores the inherent risks of high‑altitude expeditions, especially in the Karakoram range where weather can change rapidly.
While the outcome remains uncertain, the climbing community remains on standby for updates. The Pakistan Alpine Club has pledged to keep stakeholders informed as the search continues, and the international mountaineering community has expressed solidarity with the affected families and the rescue teams.