Remembering the 2012 Manaslu Disaster

Introduction: The tragic 2012 Manaslu Avalanche

It was an unusual snowy morning, on the 23rd of September 2012 at Mount Manaslu.

The precipitation didn't seem to have enough, as fresh snow kept dropping on the saturated mountain.

The camps at Mount Manaslu were filled with climbers (up to 30 of them) as it was the peak of the climbing season.

They were still sleeping when the Manaslu 2012 disaster struck.

A loud sound went off while a wall of ice fell from the mountain, triggering an avalanche that claimed the lives of many climbers in their tents.

8 Manaslu 2012 Disaster bodies were found dead from that tragic event, three were gone missing (which were predicted to be dead too).

The Manaslu 2012 disaster survivors were mainly climbers in Camp 1 and Camp 2 who were only injured by the mountaineering tragedy.

The Manaslu community is yet to recover from this Himalayan disaster as new protocols and different safety measures are continually enacted to ensure the safety of mountaineers.

The Events Leading to the Disaster

September is supposed to be a very conducive time for the Manaslu circuit trek.

On the contrary, the region experienced a consistent snowfall, 15 days stretch. As a result, it affected the movement of climbers before the Manaslu 2012 disaster.

Preparing for the Summit Push

The different team members first gathered in Kathmandu before the Manaslu 2012 disaster.

They took a ride to Arughat bazaar after a few days. This is where the trekking adventure started.

Sama Goan village was their first destination. It was an upward hike to an altitude of 3500 meters.

They got to Sama Goan after two days where they settled in their lodge.

The next morning, they headed for the base camp which was a few hour's journey; an upward hike to an altitude of about 4850 meters above sea level.

They had to spend a couple of days at the base camp to give room for team preparations, route planning, and other climbing logistics.

The base camp is equally a good place for acclimatization as they will be hiking higher altitudes in no time.

The next port of call is Camp 1 at an altitude of about 5500 meters. Camp 1 might seem to have the easiest trail giving a simple impression, but the crevasses masked by the heavy snow thwarted that assumption.

Some climbers however experienced some delays due to the heavy rainfall at the base camp and more snow accumulation at Camp 1.

Camp 2 is the crux of the climb. A path laced with steep slopes, switchbacks on ramps, and lots of crevasses. It was located at an altitude of 6250 meters.

After which they proceed to camp 3 located at altitude 6800. It has a deceitful hike that appears flat but rather was an ever-increasing slope.

The weather forecast did not favor climbing upwards. While some teams heeded the warning by remaining in the base camp, some others proceeded forward ready to make their summit push.

The Avalanche Strike

The Manaslu 2012 disaster happened in the early hours of the morning; around 4:30 am.

The climbers were still in their tent sleeping when the avalanche occurred.

There was a sudden collapse of ice from the seracs in between Camp 3 and Camp 4.

The Manaslu mountain experienced massive snowfall that season which was believed to be the cause of the fall.

It generated a destructive force that triggered an avalanche that struck the climbers in Camp 3 skyrocketing the tents and the people in them in many directions.

While some tents were buried in the avalanche debris, some others were found shattered in Camp 3 and Camp 2.

The climbers at Camp 3 were majorly affected as there were hardly any survivors.

The survivors, however, were mainly those in camp 2. A few of them sustained some injuries while some others were not affected.

It was a shocking and devastating experience as the Manaslu 2012 disaster took the climbers unawares.

Many lives were lost, up to 11 climbers.

The Aftermath of the Avalanche

The Manaslu 2012 disaster attracted the activities of sherpa guides who made efforts to rescue injured climbers.

They tried reviving the dying victims, dragged out those who were half-buried by the snow, and provided first aid for them.

The helicopter rescues arrived some hours later and began the evacuation of the injured victims to either the base camp or hospital at Sama Goan for treatment.

Survivors and Rescues

It was some sherpa guides that were below camp 3 who noticed some unusual movement at camp 3.

Upon approaching there, they found some injured climbers fighting for their lives.

They were able to drag out one of the climbers that was half buried by the snow. Though he sustained heavy injuries, they managed to revive him.

They continue to check on the victims one after another rendering the level of help they could.

The next set of rescuers came afterward to assist. Later on, the helicopter rescue arrived in an emergency response at the scene and began rescue operations for the survivors.

The helicopter rescue launched about 18 rescue flights carrying the Manaslu 2012 disaster survivors.

Depending on the nature of the injury, they are either taken to the base camp or directly to the hospital at Samo Goan.

Casualties and Missing Climbers

During the Manaslu 2012 disaster, some of the victims didn't survive the avalanche. There were lost lives while some others were missing.

According to the report, there were 8 Manaslu 2012 disaster deaths, and three Manaslu 2012 disaster bodies were allegedly missing.

One of them was later found 80 feet beneath the crevasses. The wife of the victim, accompanied by the rescue team, found it many miles (4400 meters) away from the place where the avalanche hit him.

Friends and team members of the victims came to mourn and sympathize with the families over their tragic loss. Nonetheless,l they continued to make further recovery efforts.

The two others are yet to be found. Their families continue to set up rescues to look for them. Although, it seems they have been buried in the pack of snow that continues to increase in height with each precipitation fall.

Key Figures and Team's Affected

The Manaslu 2012 expedition was unusually filled with many mountaineers that season.

The Chinese borders to Mount Cho Oyu and Shishapangma, for some reason, were closed.

Cho Oyu and Manaslu were usually like the training ground for climbers who intend to attempt Everest in the coming season.

In effect, the majority of the climbers reverted to the Manaslu expedition.

International Teams on the Mountain

There were about 30 teams made up of 231 team members that were on the Manaslu expedition that fateful day.

They were made up of multinational climbers in the different expedition groups of the Manaslu mountaineering community, ready to summit the 8th highest mountain in the world.

Eight different nations were represented. There were Americans, Canadians, Russians, Chinese, Lithuanians, Nepalese, and Climbers from Denmark, the USA, and the UK.

Sherpa Liudmila and Pasang Awomgcho are both from Russia.

Martin Belanger, Tarki, Nuri, and Gordon Ferguson are the Canadian Sherpas

For Denmark, there's Sherpa Ole Mose Nielsen and Chongba.

Edita Nicholas and Ang Gelo are the Lithuanian Sherpa

Sherpa Kevin Trieu and Pasang Nima's “pocket rocket” represent the United States.

In the UK, there's Sherpa Karmi “Mad Dog” and Ian Phillip.

The different agencies present include altitude junkies, mountain kingdom expeditions, adventure peaks, and adventure medics, among many others.

Hillaree Nelson's Connection to Manaslu

Manaslu Hillaree Nelson is a highly profiled ski mountaineer who has achieved several milestones in the history of mountaineering.

As the captain of the North Face athlete team, she was awarded National géographic Adventurer of the Year.

The award came after she conquered the summit of Papsura in India and Denali in Alaska while skiing down at the same time.

And not just that, she was the first female to get to the summit of Mount Everest, in just 24 hours. She was also the first female to ski down Mount Lhotse Couloir.

Hilaree Nelson, alongside her partner Jim Morrison had already gotten to the summit before the Manaslu 2012 disaster happened.

They were already skiing down the mountain when the avalanche struck.

According to Morrison, He first skied down the mountain before Hillaree followed afterward.

Just then, the avalanche struck and he saw as Hilaree was swept away by the forceful snow down a slope towards the south side of the mountain.

All efforts to find her proved abortive.

It was some days later that the rescue team found her body on the southern side of the mountain.

A helicopter was used to retrieve her body down to Kathmandu.

Her demise left a mark on the heart of her team and the history of mountaineering.

She was indeed an iconic adventurer whose mountaineering achievements will continue to linger in the face of time.

The Avalanche and Mountaineering Risks

From afar, mount Manaslu might not seem like a hard knock to crack as the slopes appear mild and easy to hike.

Until you experience the mountain yourself. I

Mount Manaslu is notorious for avalanches which continue to happen now and then.

This is why it is referred to as the “Killer Mountain”

The Manaslu mountain also never seems to run out of precipitation as was the case that fateful morning

What Caused the Avalanche?

From the reports of some of the expeditions that were on course that day, the weather was not at its best that fateful morning the avalanche occurred.

The rainfall became incessant making trekking quite unbearable, some climbers were advised to cease movement.

The snowfalls were as heavy as ever too as the mountain continued to accumulate more feet of fresh snow with each precipitation fall.

Unfortunately, the seracs above camp 3 could not withstand the snowpack instability due to adverse weather changes. Next, some parts of the seracs (about 600 meters wide), broke off and collapsed at the high-risk zone.

It was a heavy fall.

As was expected, the seracs' fall didn't end there. It triggered an avalanche, causing a forceful movement of the snow packs, ice, and other debris down the slope.

Managing Risk in High-Altitude Expeditions

Due to the weather instability and other underlying factors, avalanches do occur on Mount Manaslu now and then.

Mountaineers are hence traîned to mitigate the chances of being affected by them.

Using the Right Equipment

Climbers are meant to travel with the necessary equipment needed for the success of their trip.

From trekking equipment to avalanche safety tools and other essentials.

Some essential trekking equipment includes a helmet, crampons, high-altitude gear, etc.

Avalanche safety tools include airbag packs, shovels, probes, and beacons.

Weather forecast tools are provided to keep them informed on the weather conditions.

They are equally trained on how to use these tools as survival techniques in the face of any avalanche disaster.

Climbing Precautions

Climbers observe some climbing precautions as safety measures in the course of their expeditions.

• Hikes are usually done in the early hours of the morning before the ice begins to melt.

• When trekking a region with too many crevasses, climbers are usually roped together to avoid being victimized in case of an avalanche.

• The snow slopes between Camp 2 and Camp 3 are always prone to avalanches. As a climbing precaution, climbers will wait for a few days after fresh snow falls to allow its condensation.

Mind Preparedness

Mountaineering is not just an adventure, it is equally a test of strength, courage, and resilience especially in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

As a result, climbers are expected to be mentally prepared for the journey ahead.

In the face of any impending danger (especially an avalanche), they are expected to remain calm, maintain a balanced posture, and immediately put on their airbag pack for protection from avalanche

Essential Training

Climbers are trained on hiking skills, and search and rescue drills before their expeditions.

They are equally informed regarding weather conditions; understanding the nature of snow packs, wind patterns, and slope angles for efficient risk assessment

Acclimatization

Mountaineers always create time for acclimatization before ascending to higher altitudes.

This will enable the body to adjust before ascent to reduce the chances of altitude sickness.

The Legacy of the 2012 Manaslu Disaster

The result of the Manaslu 2012 disaster took so many climbers unawares.

While some climbers could not continue with their journey due to the psychological effect of that experience, some others went ahead to finish what they had started.

However, that tragedy brought about significant changes in the system of mountaineering in Manaslu.

Changes in Mountaineering Practices

After the Manaslu 2012 disaster, the Tibetan government continues to look out for ways to improve the safety of travelers on Mount Manaslu.

As a result, new safety measures have been put in place to mitigate chances of future occurrence as you will see shortly.

Enhanced Protocol

New protocols were enacted to ensure the safety of mountaineers.

Climbers for instance will only be given access to the mountain once they provide their climbing permit.

A climbing permit is issued when a climber has undergone the necessary training needed for mountaineering.

In addition only experienced porters and guides are allowed on the mountain.

Effective Communication

A Communication system is made available in any climbing exercise.

From the climbers to other team members, their leaders, and rescue teams alike.

Climbers are provided with precise weather reports for effective risk assessment.

Rescue teams are provided with advanced GPS systems and tracking devices to ensure an effective rescue system in case of any emergency.

Safety Equipment

Climbers are provided with the necessary equipment needed for their safety on the mountain.

Their helmets, crampons, high altitude gears, harnesses, beacons, and other trekking equipment should be intact.

In addition, avalanche safety tools like airbag packs, shovels, probes, etc should be made available.

Bomb Blasting

Bomb blasting is one effective way to stabilize an avalanche.

Here, a gas mixture (usually an explosive) is first detonated. This will create a pressure wave that will break the snowpack. As a result, a less destructive avalanche is produced instead.

Bomb blasting can either be done manually using an explosive, or it can be initiated using a recoilless rifle or airgun.

Climber Education

Climbers should be properly trained before any expedition.

They should be trained on how to mitigate risk in the face of impending danger.

In addition, they should be grounded on different safety precautions needed in the mountain expedition.

Weather Monitoring

Weather monitoring devices are provided in different locations along the mountain course.

This will enable a precise update on the nature of the weather at every given time.

Manaslu Reputation as the “Mountain of the Spirit”

Despite the Manaslu 2012 disaster, mountaineers and climbers are still making their way to the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

Mount Manaslu, was coined from its Sanskrit name which means “Mountain of the spirit”.

This natural edifice continues to captivate mountaineers and climbers with the spiritual allure of its majestic height and composition all year round.

Even after the Manaslu 2012 disaster, some climbers continued with their journey.

Mount Manaslu stands 8,163 meters above the earth as an iconic peak, rich in wildlife and cultural heritage.

Apart from the aesthetic views that climbers get to enjoy, they also get to experience the vast culture of the Nepals in the small village.

The wildlife is another tourist attraction as you get to see rare species like the goral, tahr, Himalayan deer, etc, in their habitat.

The mountaineering challenge with this natural edifice is in the technicality of its landscape.

The unstable weather, elevated slope, and tricky routes could make Manaslu expeditions unattractive.

Nonetheless, with adequate training and a resilient spirit, you can create a memorable experience in Mount Manaslu.

Comparing the 2012 Disaster to Other Avalanche

There have been several arguments since the Manaslu 2012 disaster.

While some individuals have tagged Mount Manaslu as a “deadly* mountain, it does not negate the fact that avalanches are common in mountainous regions.

Statistically, over the years Mount Manaslu has recorded 53 deaths out of 297 successful summits.

This record has only placed them as the 5th deadliest mountain among the 8000-meter Himalayas.

Similarities to the Cho Oyu Avalanche

The fifth tallest mountain in the world, Cho Oyu has some noteworthy similarities with Mount Manaslu.

High Altitude Avalanches

Both mountains are prone to high-altitude avalanches like the Manaslu 2012 disaster

However, Cho Oyu has a more gentle slope while Mount Manaslu has a very steep slope which increases their chances of having avalanches.

Also, there are more seracs and crevasses on Mount Manaslu when compared to Cho Oyu. These equally make Manaslu more susceptible to high-altitude Avalanches than the latter.

Weather Condition

Both mountains experience unstable weather conditions now and then. Although Cho Oyu experiences more stable weather when compared to Manaslu.

This is why there are more successful summits in Cho Oyu than in Manaslu as the stable weather encourages climbers to attempt making the summit.

However, if you want to make the most of your adventure, the best time to climb Cho Oyu is during the fall while Manaslu is in the Autumn season.

Although Cho Oyu might seem a “safer” mountain for expeditions, both mountains are, however, susceptible to Himalayan risks which are largely unpredictable.

Lessons Learned From the 2012 Tragedy

The Manaslu 2012 disaster is an eye-opener to the uncertainties that plague Himalayan adventures.

Essence of planning

It draws the curtain to the need for improved planning before any expedition.

This entails making available all essentials necessary for both the safety of mountaineers and the success of their expeditions.

General Awareness

Emphasis is laid on safety awareness and the need that climbers be well informed on the different measures; from precautionary to survival techniques.

You know what they say, once there's life, there's hope.

Mountaineering Resilience

The Manaslu 2012 disaster brings to the limelight the essence of mountaineering resilience in the success of any summit.

While unforeseen circumstances might never be swayed from the mountain, success in Mountaineering goes beyond will, but the tenacity to see your dream come to pass.

Efficient Emergency Services

The essence of an ever-ready rescue team cannot be underestimated.

There should be an effective means of communication between the climbers and the rescues in case of any emergency.

Climbers should equally be trained on search skills and rescue drills to help out in the face of any emergency.

Conclusion: Honoring the Memory of the Climbers

My heart goes out to the families of the deceased. It's painful to have such a tragic ending after a supposedly thrilling adventure.

However, you cannot deny the unpredictable risks involved in mountaineering.

The memory of the Manaslu 2012 disaster will continue to linger in the hearts of mountaineers and all who experienced that tragedy.

As mountaineers continue to pursue their life dreams on the Himalayas regardless, with the 2012 Manaslu disaster lessons remembered and honoring memories.

We hope that their future experiences will uphold the climbing legacy for many years to come.

FAQs About the 2012 Manaslu Disaster

How Many Climbers Died in the 2012 Manaslu Avalanche?

11 Climbers lost their lives during the Manaslu 2012 disaster.

After the avalanche struck, destroying the tent and catapulting them alongside the climbers in many directions.

8 casualty numbers were found at the spot while three were reported missing.

The survivors were only injured.

The bodies of some of the missing climbers were later found days later buried many feet under the snow.

It was such a tragic loss in the history of the Mount Manaslu expedition

What Led to the Avalanche on Manaslu?

The precipitation fall didn't cease for 15 days on Mount Manaslu. The rain continued down the base camp while the mountains didn't seem to run out of snow.

Climbers, perceiving the climbing risks remain at their camps while they wait for the weather to stabilize a bit.

It was speculated that the snow conditions coupled with the overcrowded mountain led to the avalanche.

Some parts of the serac above camp 3, which could not withstand the pressure, broke off and collapsed to the ground.

It was a catastrophic fall that triggered an avalanche, sending down packs of snow, avalanche debris, and ice blocks down the mountain.

The avalanche was fatal to climbers in Camp 3 and those about to make their Summit push to the peak of Mount Manaslu.

Those in Camp 2 were only hit by some of the avalanche debris that was catapulted to their location.

However, there were less casualties. While some were not affected at all, only a few climbers sustained some injuries.

Is Climbing Mount Manaslu Safe Today?

Mount Manaslu just like other Himalayan giants is as safe as a bird for mountaineering adventure.

Avalanches, like the 2012 Manaslu disaster, are just one of the many risks involved in this adventure.

However, new systems and safety measures have been enacted to ensure the safety of mountaineers during Manaslu expeditions.

Climbing preparedness

Climbers are meant to undergo effective training before being allowed on the mountain.

They will learn precautionary and survival techniques to mitigate any impending danger.

Therefore, any experienced climbers are entitled to a climbing permit to Mount Manaslu.

Improved Emergency Services

Rescue teams are provided with modern techniques to ensure their efficiency.

Good GPS systems and tracking devices are provided for accuracy and precision in locating victims in the face of any disaster.

Climbers are equally trained with the right gear to help in rescue operations during disasters.

Weather monitoring devices

Devices for weather monitoring are mounted at strategic positions in the mountain for safety improvements.

This will provide accuracy in the weather forecast at every part of the mountain at every given time.

Effective communication

There's improved communication among team members.

It extends to the rescue teams too, and other bodies necessary to achieve a successful expedition on Mount Manaslu.

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