U.S. climber and Netflix documentary star among expedition members

An avalanche on Broad Peak, one of the world’s tallest mountains, has triggered a major search and rescue operation after multiple climbers were reported missing in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region.

Officials say rescue teams have been working in extremely difficult conditions following the avalanche, which struck the expedition on Thursday.

Rescue operation underway

According to Pakistani authorities and the Alpine Club of Pakistan, several members of the climbing team remain unaccounted for while helicopters and ground crews continue searching the mountain.

The steep terrain, high altitude, and unstable weather have made rescue efforts particularly challenging.

Well-known climbers among the expedition

The expedition included Mallory Geis, an American climber attempting one of her biggest mountaineering challenges, along with climbers from Nepal, China, Pakistan, and Oman.

Also among the group was renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, whose record-breaking achievements were featured in Netflix’s 14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible.

Fatalities confirmed

Authorities have confirmed that several people have died following the avalanche, while others remain missing as recovery efforts continue.

Officials caution that the number of casualties could change as search teams reach more areas of the mountain.

One of the world’s most dangerous peaks

Standing at more than 26,400 feet (8,000 meters), Broad Peak is the world’s 12th-highest mountain and has long been considered one of mountaineering’s greatest challenges.

Although hundreds of climbers have successfully reached its summit over the decades, the mountain’s unpredictable weather and avalanche risk have claimed numerous lives.

Situation continues to develop

Rescue officials remain hopeful that additional members of the expedition may be located, though conditions continue to hamper operations.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as search teams continue working in one of the world’s most demanding high-altitude environments.