Climber Barely Missed K2 Avalanche
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An avalanche on Pakistan's K2 mountain has taken the lives of at least 11 climbers. Alex Chadwick talks to Nicholas Rice, who is currently at a base camp near K2. The young mountaineer turned back from an ascent to the summit just hours before the avalanche.
Why K2 Is Deadlier Than Mount Everest
At least 11 climbers are feared dead on K2, the world's second-highest peak. Two Dutch climbers were rescued Aug. 4, 2008, from the peak, which is on Pakistan's border with China. Ed Viesturs hide caption
At least 11 climbers are feared dead on K2, the world's second-highest peak. Two Dutch climbers were rescued Aug. 4, 2008, from the peak, which is on Pakistan's border with China.
Ed ViestursEleven people are feared dead on K2, the world's second-highest mountain. Two Dutch climbers have been rescued by helicopter, while an Italian awaits evacuation.
Professional mountaineer Ed Viesturs, believed to be the first American to climb the peak without supplemental oxygen, says because K2 is steeper and more technical to climb than Mount Everest, most climbers who attempt it have a higher level of ability.
He says, however, that the challenge of K2 makes climbers push much harder and risk more to get to the summit.