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An avalanche hit a camp in Nepal on Monday, killing five foreign climbers and two Nepali guides, officials said.
Five foreigners were injured at the base camp of Mount Yalung Ri, located at an altitude of 16,070 feet. His nationality and identity have not been disclosed.
A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the agency was aware of the avalanche and was working to gather information.
“The US State Department has no higher priority than the safety of American citizens,” the spokesperson said. “We are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
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Mount Everest is shown in Nepal. On Monday, seven people died in Nepal’s Mount Yalung Ri base camp. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
The rescue teams were reaching the spot on foot. A rescue helicopter attempted to reach the scene, but had to turn back due to bad weather. Nepal Armed Police Force spokesman Shailendra Thapa said they would try again on Tuesday morning.
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Mount Yalung Ri is an 18,370 feet high peak. It is considered suitable for beginners who have no prior experience in climbing high mountains.
Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 14 highest mountains, including Mount Everest.
Earlier this month, a South Korean climber died after being caught in a powerful storm while attempting to climb a Himalayan peak just south of Mount Everest.
Villagers climbed the mountain during rescue efforts to reach hundreds of hikers trapped in heavy snow at tourist camping sites on the slopes of Mount Everest. (Lingsuiye via AP)
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In the autumn months, climbers often climb the smaller peaks before the rainy season and winter months.
