Stranded climbers struggle to survive in Nepal
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Documentary filmmaker Allan Smith knows the challenges of scaling Mount Everest after traveling there in 2012.
He also has two friends stuck there now, so he's watching for updates about climbers trying to descend the mountain safely after a massive earthquake struck Nepal on Saturday.
The earthquake triggered an avalanche on Mount Everest, and three Americans were killed.
Smith shared video with Eyewitness News of the base camp where the climbers huddle until conditions improve.
"They have limited food, they could melt the ice on the mountain and snow for water," said Smith. "But right now, there's no rescue available to them."
Smith is also aware of the challenges ahead as people dig out and try to recover in Nepal's capital.
"The people in Katmandu are facing a variety of conditions because of the remoteness, and the lack of services," Smith said. "Pretty much, they're going in there and they're trying to dig out with their hands. There's a concern and hope for the people, and their safety. It's a very remote, rural area."
Officials said Sunday that the death toll from the magnitude 7.8 quake has reached at least 2,100.
