Search for missing K2 climber

Searches are continuing today for a Co Limerick climber who went missing in Asia after scaling the second highest mountain in the world.

Engineer Gerard McDonnell and six colleagues vanished yesterday after they were hit by falling ice at about 8,000 metres while descending the K2 peak on the Chinese/Pakistani border.

McDonnell’s friend and fellow climber Pat Falvey today said from Co Cork that the 37-year-old was an experienced climber, but his family were very worried for his safety.

On Friday, Mr McDonnell, from Kilcorney became the first Irish man to reach the summit of 8,611-metre K2, branded the most dangerous mountain in the world.

Mr Falvey, who has been monitoring the search operation via satellite communication links, told PA: “An amazing celebration is turning into a nightmare for us at the moment.

“But Ger is one of the strongest climbers out there and that gives us great hope.

“We will continue to pray for his safe return and the safe return of his colleagues.”

He later began the treacherous descent in sub-zero weather conditions with six members of a Dutch expedition team.

Forty nine climbers have died on K2 since 1952 – 22 while descending from the summit.

Mr McDonnell, who lives in Alaska, failed to reach the summit of the mountain two years ago after he was hit by a rockfall and was airlifted to hospital.

K2 is regarded as more challenging than Mount Everest because of its steeper routes and unpredictable weather.

Only 189 climbers have reached the summit since the 1950s, compared with around 1,400 for Everest.