Filmmaker and Everest avalanche survivor Michael Churton recounts the harrowing details of this weekend’s tragedy.
On Saturday, a massive earthquake hit Nepal killing more than 4,000 people and injuring at least 6,500 more at press time. There have even been reports of dozens of deaths in India and China, as a result of the tremor near Kathmandu. These catastrophic numbers could continue to rise as rescuers reach outlying areas of the cities.
The deadly 7.8-magnitude quake also caused avalanches to crash down Mount Everest, killing at least 17 climbers, injuring at least 61 more, and trapping hundreds more at and below the base camp.
Among them was New York-based filmmaker, Michael Churton, who was injured in the avalanche and recounted the specifics of this tragic event. Thirty eight-year-old Churton believed the avalanche was caused by a giant ice shelf breaking loose, at which point he says he told everyone to get down. After getting himself into the fetal position to protect himself from the power of the snow and debris, Churton was tossed against a rock, injuring his face. He remained buried as the avalanche continued overhead for close to a minute.
Mountaineer Jost Kobusch filmed the avalanche hitting Everest basecamp. Be advised that the filmmaker and fellow climber do use some profane language.
There are many organizations and aid initiatives already responding to the devastated areas. Click for resources to help aid relief efforts in Nepal and the surrounding areas.
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