Heavy Snowfall in China Sparks Avalanches, Leading to Week-Long Rescue Operation for Trapped Tourists

Avalanches triggered by heavy snowfall in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, near the border with Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan, have blocked roads, leaving both tourists and residents stranded for over a week. The rescue operation to evacuate more than 1,000 people trapped in a remote skiing area in northwestern China is underway, with military helicopters deployed to airlift the injured and deliver essential supplies.

The avalanches occurred in Altay prefecture in the Xinjiang region, creating significant challenges for rescue efforts. The affected village, Hemu, is situated close to the borders of Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan, making the situation more complex. The blocked roads have not only stranded tourists but also affected local residents.

The extreme weather conditions have led to a critical situation, prompting a large-scale response from authorities. A military helicopter was utilized to evacuate tourists, and efforts were made to clear snow-blocked roads to restore connectivity to major routes. The Xinjiang region’s local highway administration reported that the avalanches impacted approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles) of roads, causing widespread disruption.

The rescue operation involved not only evacuating stranded individuals but also delivering essential supplies such as food and fuel to those affected. Airlifting the injured via military helicopters became a crucial aspect of the operation, given the challenging terrain and blocked roads.

State broadcaster CCTV provided visual documentation of the evacuation efforts, showing tourists carrying their luggage across snow-covered areas to reach military helicopters. The scenes depicted a coordinated effort to transport individuals to safety. Additionally, a cleared road enabled outgoing vehicles, primarily driven by tourists, to leave the affected area.

The region’s geography, characterized by valleys with tree-covered slopes, presented obstacles to road-clearing efforts. The avalanches affected a vast network of roads, complicating the task of reopening routes for both residents and tourists. Despite the challenges, progress was made in clearing the snow-blocked road linking Hemu village to major routes.

The situation has drawn attention to the vulnerability of areas prone to avalanches and heavy snowfall, emphasizing the need for effective disaster response strategies. The cooperation of military and local authorities, along with the resilience of those affected, played a crucial role in managing the crisis.

As the rescue operation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those stranded in the affected region. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather-related disasters and the importance of preparedness and swift response in mitigating their impact.