Three Climbers Confirmed Dead After Avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan

Search and rescue operations for a 10 person climbing expedition on Broad Peak in Pakistan were suspended late Friday due to adverse weather conditions. Authorities have recovered the bodies of three climbers: Mallory Geis from the United States, Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy from Oman, and Pur Bahadur Gurung from Nepal. The bodies were airlifted by Pakistan Army helicopters to a hospital in Skardu for identification and legal formalities. Seven members of the expedition remain missing, including renowned Nepal born climber Nirmal Purja and Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi.

The avalanche occurred on Thursday on the 8,047 metre peak in the Karakoram range. The multinational group consisted of six Nepalese, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese climber. While some reports initially suggested four bodies had been recovered, the Alpine Club of Pakistan and other officials later clarified that three bodies were found. Drone footage has indicated the presence of other climbers in the area, but their condition remains unverified. GPS data suggested the avalanche swept the group approximately 1,000 metres downhill.

Rescue efforts involve the Pakistan Army, local expert mountaineers, and a civil rescue team led by Sarbaz Khan. The Alpine Club of Pakistan stated that while the chances of survival diminish with time, they continue to coordinate with government authorities to mobilize resources. There are also concerns that local high altitude porters may have been affected by the incident. Operations are expected to resume on Saturday as weather permits.