A series of devastating snowstorms and a catastrophic avalanche in Nepal’s Himalayan region have resulted in the deaths of nine individuals, including five Italian climbers. The incidents occurred over several days, with the most severe event taking place on Monday at the base camp of the 5,630-meter Yalung Ri peak near the Chinese border. An avalanche struck a group of 12 climbers, claiming the lives of seven, including three Italians, two Nepalis, a German, and a French national. The remaining five survivors were rescued and airlifted to Kathmandu for medical treatment. Survivors described the terrifying moment when massive ice slabs descended upon them, burying some under the snow. In a separate incident, two Italian climbers lost their lives while attempting to scale the 6,887-meter Panbari mountain in western Nepal. The climbers had been missing since Friday and were confirmed dead by local authorities. Nepal, home to eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, including Mount Everest, attracts hundreds of climbers and trekkers annually. The autumn season, though less popular than spring, still sees significant expedition activity despite the challenging conditions. Last week, Cyclone Montha brought heavy rain and snowfall, stranding many trekkers on popular routes. According to the Himalayan Database, avalanches have been responsible for nearly a third of the 1,093 recorded deaths on Himalayan peaks since 1950.