A woman who survived a devastating avalanche on Mount Yalung Ri in Nepal is speaking out about the tragedy that claimed the lives of seven climbers.
The avalanche struck the mountain’s base camp on Monday, Nov. 3, killing seven people, according to the Associated Press. The BBC reported that two bodies have been recovered so far, while eight others were rescued.
Among the survivors is 54-year-old Isabelle Solange Thaon, who lost her husband, Christian Manfred, during the disaster. Thaon, who was also climbing the mountain, said she managed to escape when the avalanche hit.
“Unfortunately, Christian died … because rocks hit his head,” Thaon said from her hospital bed, according to the AP and The Weather Channel.
Thaon and fellow French climber Didier Armand were among the lucky few who survived. “We were lucky because we were on the left,” she explained, per The Weather Channel. She recalled fighting to stay alive as snow and debris rushed around her. “The other people were under the snow — they think it was six meters (20 feet) deep, so it was completely dead in front. It was not possible to help them.”
Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks, told the BBC that the five remaining bodies may be buried beneath 10 to 15 feet of snow.
Among the dead were two Italians, a Canadian, a German, a French national, and two Nepali guides. Earlier reports from NBC News suggested that three of the victims were American citizens.
The U.S. State Department confirmed to NBC News that it is aware of reports of American deaths and is gathering more information. “We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide consular assistance,” a spokesperson said. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of all those affected.”
