American Climber Among Those Lost After Avalanche Strikes Pakistan’s Broad Peak

A major rescue operation is underway in Pakistan following a devastating avalanche on Broad Peak, one of the highest mountains in the world, where an international group of climbers went missing in the remote Karakoram mountain range.
Pakistani officials said Friday that the remains of American climber Sarah Mallory Geis had been located by rescue teams. The search operation also led to the discovery of Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy of Oman and Pur Bahadur Gurung of Nepal.
The climbers were part of an international group of at least 10 people who disappeared after the avalanche struck on Thursday. Drone footage reportedly showed signs of additional climbers in the area where rescue teams were searching, raising concerns that more people may still be unaccounted for.

Standing at 26,414 feet, Broad Peak is the 12th-highest mountain in the world and is widely regarded as one of the most demanding peaks for climbers. The combination of extreme altitude, steep terrain and unpredictable weather has created significant challenges for rescuers attempting to reach the affected area.
The rescue operation was temporarily suspended Friday night because of difficult weather conditions. However, officials said both aerial searches and ground operations would continue whenever conditions permit, with rescue teams working carefully through the rugged landscape.
High-altitude porters and rescue personnel are also assisting with efforts to reach the affected area and transport those found back to base camp. Authorities described the location as extremely remote and difficult to access, making every stage of the operation a demanding task.
The climbers still missing are believed to include individuals from Nepal, Pakistan, China and the United Kingdom. Among those reported missing is renowned British mountaineer Nirmal Purja, 43, a Nepalese-born climber known for setting a record for the fastest ascent of the world’s 14 highest mountains.

As rescue teams continue their search across the unforgiving slopes of Broad Peak, the focus remains on locating those still missing and bringing clarity to the families and communities awaiting news of their loved ones.