How Many Bodies Are Still Out On Everest?
Lying frozen in time, over 200 climbers are still out on Everest.
Mt. Everest is over 60 million years old. It is the highest point from sea level and stands at about 29,035 ft. high. Wind blows over 200 mph and the temperature can reach below -80f. This being said, you can try and understand the strength and perseverance it takes to get to the top of this mountain.
Mountaineers pay thousands of dollars, give up months of their lives and risk dying. But still, it's no surprise that mountaineers flock to Everest. According to Conrad Anker, from National Geographic, "the danger of climbing mountains is part of what makes it a powerful and enriching experience." They want to put themselves to the ultimate test, and then reap the ultimate reward.
Unfortunately, "About 240 people have died attempting to climb Mount Everest (history.com)." Death is usually caused by avalanches, altitude sickness and falling. By the time you reach the "Death Zone" at 26,000 ft. the air is extremely thin, and there is a small amount of oxygen. It becomes difficult to think and move. Being that the air is so thin, it has become very difficult to recover the bodies left behind.
Stories:
George Mallory was a famous English Mountaineer. He attempted to be the first to reach the summit of Everest. Unfortunately, he didn't make it; he died during a storm on the mountain. Years later, Chinese climbers found his body face down with his arms spread. It is believed the cause of his death was because his rope failed.
The most popular of the climbers is known as "Green Boots." During his climb, he was separated from his group. He sought refuge, but unfortunately with no luck he sat freezing cold until he died. Green Boots is now a trail marker for Mt. Everest climbers. His body lies close to a cave that all climbers have to pass on their way to the peak.
Did you know...
American Jordan Romero is the youngest person to reach the summit from the north side. He was 13 years old.
Japanese Miura Yiuchiro was the oldest person to reach the summit. He was 80 years old.
"No matter who you are, at what point in your life, weak, poor or afraid. Everest is our highest mountain and the climb has an everlasting, profound impact on most Everest climbers life. True, some die, yet far more survive to a whole new vision on life (MountEverest.net)."
More Readings:
The Deadliest Mountains on the Planet