Following the devastating avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan that claimed the lives of 10 mountaineers, veteran climber Lhakpa Sherpa has released a heartfelt statement reflecting on the shifting realities of high-altitude mountaineering, the dangers of weather-related risks, and the deep sorrow felt across the climbing community.

“I have over 40 years of experience in the mountains. I want to share some of my thoughts.

The mountains in the Himalayas have become more unstable compared to a couple decades ago. They used to be very frozen and were quite solid. Now they melt aль much more, loosening the rock.

You cannot take risks when it comes to weather. If the weather conditions are poor, you must wait. If you are stubborn and try to force your way, you put yourself at great risk. The mountains will always be there, you can always come back. There is no need to rush.

I’m so sorry for the 10 climbers that lost their lives on Broad Peak. My heart goes out to their families. They were all climbers that were younger than me, I feel like I’ve lost many children.”