A search and rescue operation remains underway after an avalanche struck a multinational climbing team on Broad Peak (8,047m) in Pakistan's Karakoram range. The expedition is led by renowned Nepalese mountaineer Nirmal Purja.
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, two climbers have been confirmed dead. They were identified as Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthi of Oman and Pur Bahadur Gurung of Nepal.
Rescue officials said drones located seven other climbers on the mountain. However, poor visibility, unstable snow conditions, and the continuing avalanche risk have prevented teams from reaching their location. Another climber is still unaccounted for.
Earlier in the operation, GPS data appeared to indicate movement from some expedition members. Later, rescuers recovered a damaged tracking device, and officials said the earlier signal may not have accurately reflected the climbers' actual location.
The rescue mission has been paused because of severe weather and hazardous conditions. Authorities said operations will resume as soon as it is safe for rescue teams to return to the mountain.
Broad Peak is the world's 12th-highest mountain and is known for its steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and frequent avalanche danger. These conditions continue to make rescue efforts extremely challenging.
Officials have not released any additional information about the condition of the climbers identified by the drone. Further updates are expected as the rescue operation continues.
Source: Official statement from the Alpine Club of Pakistan and information compiled from publicly available reports.
