480 climbers stuck at base camp

Snow and strong winds have trapped a record 480 foreign climbers at Manaslu base camp. They descended from higher camps after persistent snowfall began Friday.

Route opened, then weather turned

The rope-fixing team reached the 8,163-meter summit Thursday, opening the route. But bad weather immediately forced everyone back down.

“More climbers were supposed to head for the summit today, but the weather turned foul”

Avalanche buried fixed ropes

An avalanche above Camp III swept away sections of fixed rope three days before the route was completed. Some tents have collapsed under the snow.

“some tents have collapsed under the snow”

Congestion concerns mount

A similar number of high-altitude guides and support staff are accompanying the 480 climbers. Recent photos show long lines on sections of the route.

Bay of Bengal system looms

Climbers are watching for a weather window around September 21 to 23. A developing system over the Bay of Bengal could bring more snow to the Himalayas.

“Heavy snowfall is possible during this period, or there could be no effect at all, depending on its eventual track”

Forecast remains uncertain

The cyclone's track may change in the next five to six days. It may not affect the mountains at all, depending on how it moves.

“It may not affect the mountains at all. It depends on how it moves.”