Officials reported that an avalanche on Monday engulfed a camp, resulting in the deaths of five foreign climbers and two Nepali guides.

At the base camp of Mount Yalung Ri, situated at 16,070 feet, five foreign nationals sustained injuries. Their respective nationalities and personal details remain unreleased.

A spokesperson for the State Department informed Digital that the agency was cognizant of the avalanche incident and was actively compiling information.

The spokesperson affirmed, “The paramount concern for the U.S. Department of State is the safety and security of American citizens. We are closely tracking developments and are prepared to offer consular aid.”

Rescue teams were making their way to the location by foot. An attempt to reach the site via helicopter was thwarted by adverse weather conditions, forcing it to retreat. Shailendra Thapa, spokesperson for Nepal’s Armed Police Force, stated that another attempt would be made on Tuesday morning.

Mount Yalung Ri stands at an elevation of 18,370 feet. It is generally regarded as appropriate for novice climbers who lack prior experience with high-altitude mountaineering.

Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 14 tallest mountains.

Previously this month, a South Korean mountaineer perished after being enveloped by a severe storm during an ascent attempt on a Himalayan peak situated just south of Mount Everest.

During the autumn season, mountaineers frequently ascend lesser peaks ahead of the onset of the rainy and winter periods.