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Two climbers of Indian descent, Arun Kumar Tiwari and Sandeep Are, died while descending Mount Everest after reaching the summit on May 21. Their deaths are the first fatalities of the 2026 season involving client climbers, highlighting ongoing risks despite heavy crowds on Everest.
Two climbers of Indian origin died on Mount Everest on May 21 and 22 after reaching the summit and descending, according to Nepal’s Department of Tourism liaison officers. Their deaths, confirmed by Everest officials, mark the first fatalities among client climbers in the 2026 season, underscoring ongoing dangers on the mountain despite increased crowds.
The victims are Arun Kumar Tiwari and Sandeep Are, both of Indian descent, who summited Everest on May 21. Tiwari died late at night on May 21 near the Hillary Step during his descent, reportedly due to health complications. Four Sherpa guides attempted to rescue him at the time, but he succumbed before reaching lower elevations, according to Nepal’s Department of Tourism.
Sandeep Are, who also reached the summit on May 21, died just above Camp II at 21,000 feet during his descent. Sources familiar with Are’s background told Outside that he developed snow blindness and other health issues and was being rescued when he died. Are was an experienced mountaineer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with prior climbs including Aconcagua and Lobuche Peak. His death occurred during rescue efforts by mountain workers.
These fatalities bring the total to five on Everest this season, which has seen a surge in climbers. The season’s overall summit count exceeds 700 as of May 22, with continued high traffic despite challenging weather conditions, including winds above 26,000 feet. Mount Everest live updates provide ongoing information about climber crowding.
Why It Matters
The deaths highlight the persistent risks of high-altitude mountaineering, especially amid crowded conditions on Everest. The fatalities among client climbers underscore ongoing safety challenges as the season progresses, potentially affecting future climbing policies and mountaineer safety protocols. The incident also raises concerns about rescue efforts and health management during the peak season.
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Background
Everest has seen a record number of climbers this season, with over 700 successful summits by May 22, amid increasing crowding and challenging weather. Previous fatalities this season include guides and support staff, with the recent deaths marking the first among paying clients. The 2026 season has been notable for high summit numbers but also for multiple incidents, including falls and health-related deaths, reflecting the mountain’s ongoing dangers.
“At least 70 climbers reached the summit on May 22, bringing the total for the season to over 700.”
— Khim Lal Gautam, Nepal’s Department of Tourism
“Are was an avid climber who took health and wellness very seriously, and he wanted to be a well-rounded mountaineer.”
— Jesse Ramos, Boulder Mountain Guiding
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear what specific health issues caused Tiwari’s and Are’s deaths, nor the full details of rescue efforts. The exact circumstances surrounding their health deteriorations during descent remain under investigation, and future safety measures are still being evaluated.
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What’s Next
Rescue teams and mountaineering authorities will review safety protocols and rescue operations, as detailed in Everest safety updates. Further investigations into the causes of death and the impact of crowding on safety are expected. Additional high-altitude weather conditions and their influence on climber health will also be monitored.
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Key Questions
What caused the deaths of the climbers?
It is believed they died from health complications during descent, including snow blindness and other altitude-related issues, but specific medical causes are still under investigation.
Were the climbers experienced?
Yes, Sandeep Are was an experienced climber with prior high-altitude ascents, and Arun Kumar Tiwari had reached Everest’s summit before his death. Their deaths underscore the mountain’s inherent dangers regardless of experience.
How many climbers have summited Everest this season?
As of May 22, more than 700 climbers have reached the summit, with continued climbs expected despite challenging weather conditions.
Is this season more dangerous than previous years?
The season has seen high summit numbers and multiple fatalities, but it remains to be seen if overall risk levels are higher than in past years. Increased crowding and weather are contributing factors.
Source: Outside
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