We are not heading up the mountain today as planned. The
weather has, again, played a significant part in our plans. We have had some snow
for the last few days at all levels on the mountain and the cumulative effect
of this may mean that the slopes high on the mountain are loaded. This could
mean that they may avalanche if crossed.
Several teams have departed today in spite of the
conditions, which don’t look too bad at Base Camp, for summit attempts on both
the 2nd and 3rd October.
Our most recent weather forecast suggests that the 4th
October is a better day to summit and after lengthy discussions amongst ourselves
and with our Sherpa colleagues we have decided to depart for Camp 1 tomorrow.
We will then stay at each camp in turn before reaching Camp
4 on Thursday from where we will mount our summit attempt on Friday.
Whilst the sitting around is normal for Himalayan
mountaineering it is quite frustrating and I, for one, am looking forward to
getting underway tomorrow.
The teams that have set off today will clear the path and
also alert us to any problems on the mountain which is an advantage.
All white in Base Camp – 28 Sep 13
Discussions with the Sherpa Team
Purba making pork curry for supper which was very nice
Our friends from both HIMEX and Altitude Junkies have now
departed and there camps are in the process of being stripped and portered down
the hill to Samagoen. ‘Bon Voyage
everyone’.
Interestingly another team has arrived to take their place
in base camp which suggests that this mountain is still open for business.
That’s it for the next few days. I look forward to sending
an update upon our return from high on the mountain. ;-)