An avalanche has struck a team of climbers on Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain, leaving around 10 climbers feared missing, the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) has confirmed.
The avalanche hit the 8,047-metre peak in the Karakoram range around midday on Thursday, severing all contact with the expedition. According to the ACP, there has been no communication with the climbers for several hours, and officials described the situation as deeply concerning.
Among the missing is renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal “Nims Dai” Purja, who leads the international expedition. Purja rose to global fame in 2019 after summiting all 14 of the world’s peaks above 8,000 metres in just over six months, and has continued to pursue high-altitude records since. Also missing is Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi from Hunza, along with an American, an Omani, and a Chinese national who were part of the same team.
The ACP said the expedition was believed to comprise about 10 climbers in total, including several Nepali mountaineers, foreign clients, and Pakistani high-altitude guides. No casualties or survivors have been confirmed so far.
Search and rescue efforts are being organised, with authorities seeking helicopter support to reach the affected area. The ACP’s senior leadership said it remains in constant contact with government authorities and relevant agencies to mobilise resources as quickly as possible, though rescue operations depend on favourable weather in the high-altitude terrain.
Broad Peak, located on the Pakistan-China border near K2, is considered one of the more accessible 8,000-metre peaks technically, but its altitude and exposure to avalanches make it a serious and unpredictable climb, particularly during the busy summer expedition season when teams are also attempting K2 and Gasherbrum I nearby.
This is a developing story. GB Tribune will provide updates as more information becomes available from the Alpine Club of Pakistan.