TL;DR
Two climbers of Indian descent died on Mount Everest on May 21-22 after reaching the summit. Both deaths occurred during descent due to health issues, not accidents. The season has now recorded five fatalities.
Two climbers of Indian origin died on Mount Everest during descent on May 21 and 22, after reaching the summit. The deaths are the first fatalities of the 2026 season involving client climbers, highlighting ongoing risks despite increasing summit success rates.
According to Nepal’s Department of Tourism liaison officer at Everest Base Camp, Arun Kumar Tiwari died late on May 21 near the Hillary Step after reaching the summit earlier that day. Four Sherpa guides attempted to rescue him at the time of his death. Sandeep Are, also of Indian descent and a client of Pioneer Adventures, died during his descent just above Camp II at 21,000 feet on May 22. Are developed snow blindness and other health issues, and was being rescued when he died. He was an experienced mountaineer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a history of climbing Aconcagua and Lobuche Peak.
Why It Matters
The fatalities underscore ongoing dangers of high-altitude mountaineering on Everest, even among well-prepared climbers. Mount Everest Live Updates: Climbers Expect Crowding When the Summit Push Begins The season has now seen five deaths, raising concerns about safety amid increasing crowds and challenging weather conditions. These incidents may influence future climbing policies and risk management strategies.
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Background
Mount Everest has seen a record number of climbers this season, with over 700 successful summits as of May 22, despite recent fatalities. Mount Everest Live Updates: Climbers Expect Crowding When the Summit Push Begins The season has already experienced multiple deaths, including guides and high-altitude workers, amid a surge in climber numbers and variable weather. The deaths of Tiwari and Are are the first involving client climbers this year, following earlier fatalities among guides and support staff.
“At least 70 climbers reached the summit on May 22, continuing the busy season despite challenging conditions.”
— Khim Lal Gautam, Nepal’s Department of Tourism
“Are was an experienced climber who took his health and wellness seriously, which makes his death during descent particularly tragic.”
— Jesse Ramos, Boulder-based guide
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear what specific health conditions caused the deaths, nor whether weather or altitude-related factors played a role. The exact circumstances of Tiwari’s death during rescue efforts are still being investigated. Details about the total number of climbers affected by health issues during the season remain incomplete. Mount Everest Live Updates: Climbers Expect Crowding When the Summit Push Begins
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What’s Next
Rescue operations and safety assessments are ongoing. There Were Record Crowds on Mount Everest’s Summit This Week but No Deaths Authorities and guiding companies are expected to review safety protocols. Further updates on the season’s fatalities and potential policy changes are anticipated in the coming weeks.
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Key Questions
What caused the deaths of the two climbers?
It is believed that Arun Kumar Tiwari died of health issues during rescue efforts near the Hillary Step, while Sandeep Are developed snow blindness and other health problems during his descent. Exact medical causes are still under investigation.
Are these the first fatalities of the 2026 Everest season?
No, the season has already experienced five fatalities, including guides and support staff, with the deaths of Tiwari and Are being the first involving client climbers.
How many climbers have summited Everest this season?
As of May 22, more than 700 climbers have successfully summited Everest, despite challenging weather conditions and recent fatalities.
What safety measures are being considered after these deaths?
Authorities and guiding companies are likely to review and potentially tighten safety protocols, including health screenings, crowd management, and rescue procedures, though specific measures have not yet been announced.
Source: Outside
