Search called off as Everest death toll reaches 13

Nepal yesterday called off the search for local guides still missing after the deadliest accident on Mount Everest killed 13 colleagues, as climbers recalled the terrifying moments when the avalanche hit.

Rescuers have retrieved the bodies of 13 sherpa guides and plucked another nine to safety since an ice and snow avalanche smashed into their expedition on Friday morning on the world’s highest peak.

Authorities have ruled out any hope of finding more survivors, and with bad weather hampering efforts they have now decided to end the search for the three guides thought still buried.