Another very frustrating day with regards to the weather I'm
afraid. It snowed heavily throughout the night and the weather
system does not look like its about to clear just yet. Consequently,
at 0830 the expedition leader took the decision to clear the mountain
and everybody is now safely at Base Camp. There is little point
in staying in the high camps when there is too much snow to work
safely (there is significant avalanche risk after heavy snow).
By staying up the climbers eat valuable rations and use stores
of gas to cook on, all of which must be carried up on someone's
back. With no chance of any progress being made along the ridge
towards Camp 2 it was better to bring everyone down to Base Camp
where their appetites will be greater and where they can recuperate.
We will see what the weather brings tomorrow and hopefully resume
progress as soon as possible.
