7 Sep 2020 Peak Climbing Nepal
Mount Everest Temperature: Mount Everest peak is the highest mountain peak in the world towering above with an elevation of 8848m above sea level. Thus, it has a freezing environment and unpredictable storms that make it uninhabitable for wildlife.
The top of the summit experiences the highest temperature of around -19 degrees Celsius or -2 degrees Fahrenheit in July. The temperature remains around -36 degrees Celsius (-33 degrees Fahrenheit) in January which is the coldest month of the year. The summit of Mt Everest also reaches the lower limit of the jet stream.
Thus, climbers and mountaineers will experience harsh winds of 100 miles (160 km) per hour on average and can even hit 285 km/h (177 mph). There is a risk of climbers getting blown off the summit due to such high force winds. Moreover, the precipitation in the summer monsoon season (June to August) makes it difficult for climbers.
The Spring season (March, April, and May) is still chilly in nighttime and there might be unpredictable storms. March to May is the climbing season as the hurricane-force winds are relatively less. Read on to know more about Mount Everest temperatures in various seasons along with other relevant information in detail.
Mount Everest Temperature
Summer – Monsoon (Mount Everest Temperature)
Summer – Monsoon brings clouds all over the Everest region that affects the trekking and climbing from June to September. Indian monsoon clouds bring heavy rainfall and moisture in the region. June to September is off-season and hence climbing and trekking activities are not suitable on the Everest region. The top of the summit temperatures averages around −19 degrees Celsius (−2 degrees Fahrenheit) in July.
Moreover, the hot and humid conditions make it challenging for off-season trekkers in the summer – monsoon season. The clouds also cover the mountains and obstruct it. Climbers and hikers must be careful if they decide to trek in the summer – monsoon season.
The Indian monsoon has a warm and wet wind from the Indian Ocean blowing Mount Everest’s south slope that can bring violent snowstorms. The precipitation and unexpected storms can fill up to 3 m (10 ft). Hence, trekking and other activities is not ideal in this season.
Spring
March to May in Spring months is a peak season for trekking and climbing expeditions in the Everest region. Stable weather conditions and warm temperatures are the highlight in this season. This is a small window of climbing the highest mountain peak and placing your name in the history books.
During spring, the wind from the west blows against the Mount Everest summit and around the region. The Himalayan south slopes form moisture-laden air encounters with the wind. It then condenses into a white cloud which can sometimes lead to storms.
The speed of the wind is relatively at around 80 km/h (about 50 mph). The air pressure remains at just one-third of that at sea level hence you should remain careful as it can cause a reduction in oxygen levels.
Winter (Mount Everest Temperature)
November to February is the winter season and brings heavy snowfall and extremely cold conditions in the Everest region. Besides that, there are frequently attacking high-speed harsh winds. There are also snowstorms caused by the southward direction in northern hemisphere jet streams.
The global southwest-flowing jet stream from the north produces hurricane-force winds. In the summit that records a wind speed of over 285 km/h (177 mph). The extremely strong and dangerous winds can blow climbers off the Mt. Everest. Its average level of winds is around 160 km/h (100 mph) with sudden unpredictable rise. The storms can blow the snow from the summit which can cause problems for climbers.
Moreover, the Winter season is also a time for challenging offseason adventures. The temperatures of Everest Base Camp averages around -17 degrees Celsius or 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit and the Mt. Everest summit averages around -37 degrees Celsius or -35 degrees Fahrenheit from December to January. The average temperatures can drop to -60 degrees Celsius or -76 degrees Fahrenheit in January.
Autumn
September to November in Autumn is a peak season for trekking and climbing adventures as it is a post-monsoon period in the region. The stable weather conditions with less rainfall make it perfect for these adventures. Autumn brings moderate temperatures that are perfect for trekking in the daytime. Climbing majestic mount Everest is also possible.
Winds on Mount Everest
The Everest summit is one of the windiest places on earth. There are hurricane-force winds over 74 mph from October to early April. These winds are equivalent to Category 1 Hurricane. Wind Chill adjusted temperatures are around -70C (-90F) at the summit. Exposed skin would be frostbitten at this temperature instantaneously.
The relatively short climbing window in May is due to less windy conditions. Wind chill and low temperatures make the environment around EBC freeze in winters. The adjusted wind chill temperatures of -70C (-90F) make Everest summit one of the coldest places on earth. It compares to -67.8C (-90F) temperature in Siberia and -89C (129F) in Vostok in Antarctica.
Cloud Formations Around Everest
The pyramidal shape of Mount Everest and high winds produce a unique type of cloud known as “Banner Cloud.” The Banner Cloud can be seen on cloudless days on the lee side of the mountain.
This forms strong winds around the mountain and creates a temporary low-pressure cell on the lee side which further creates moisture. Everest is the only mountain that projects into the jet stream. The shape of the cloud on the summit is at a right angle to the peak. When it’s stronger around 50 Mph it tilts down and tilts up when it’s weaker.
Precipitation Pattern Around Mount Everest
The EBC region experiences around 18 inches of precipitation on average. More than 80% occurs during the monsoon season from June to September. Monsoon moisture from south of EBC produces a rain shadow with rain falling on the south side of the mountains before reaching base camp.
The cold temperature and high altitude conditions limit the amount of moisture. The base camp precipitation is around 18 inches as compared to 70 inches in Lukla. The summit receives very little precipitation as there is high wind blowing.
Big winter snowstorms come with strong mid-latitude storms in the region that covers basecamp with thick inches of snow. Thus, if you are trekking you should get windproof pants and gaiters, especially in winter. Trekkers and mountaineers should also check daily weather forecasts as the weather remains quite unpredictable in high altitude conditions.
Everest Weather Forecast
The Lobuche weather station, also known as “Pyramid Station”, is the nearest weather station to Mount Everest. The weather station has operated since 2006 at an elevation of 5,079m. It provides essential accurate weather forecasts and climbing teams also hire meteorologists for daily weather forecasts.
Forecasts are generally based on ground observations with large scale weather models. The temperature gradient between the summit and base camp is approximately +1ºC per 150 meters of altitude.
Popular Everest Base Camp Trek
The EBC (South) lies at an altitude of 5,364m and is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. This is a great alternative for those who don’t want to ascend Everest but still want a great adventure. Thus, the EBC trek is one of the best treks in the world.
Trekkers can observe majestic views of snow-capped mountains including Mt Everest, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and others. EBC is an ideal destination for hikers and adventurers who flock over the country to take this trek. Trekkers will get breathtaking views of the Himalayas, pristine waterfalls, serene glaciers, and forested hills along trails.
The Sherpa culture, heritage, and traditions will enchant you. Tibetan Buddhism and also delicious cuisine is another highlight of the trek. This exciting trip will provide you with incredible memories. EBC trek starts with Kathmandu to Lukla flight. The scenic flight to Tenzing-Hillary airport takes around 30 minutes of flight and lands at a narrow runway.
Aerial views of snow-capped mountains will enchant you. After arriving at Lukla, The guides and porters will help you prepare for the trek. You will start your trek to EBC from Lukla. The lush, green forest trails provide you with a scenic view. You will pass through villages, settlements, and observe their day to day lifestyle. There are fast-flowing rivers that will cross with several suspension bridges.
Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep are some of the settlements to arrive at EBC. You will stay at tea houses and lodges along the trail and experience the incredible hospitality of the local people. The Sherpa way of life, culture, and belief system influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and monasteries and gompas will enchant you. Overall, EBC trek is a great trekking adventure in Nepal.
When is the Best Time for Everest Base Camp trek?
Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May) are ideal for Everest Base Camp trek. Trekkers will get stable weather conditions and favorable daytime temperatures that are ideal for trekking.
The Autumn season has clear skies with minimal rainfall that will allow you to trek with ease. There are also great views of snow-capped mountains from various viewpoints along the trail. Various festivals fall under this season that makes it ideal for cultural exploration. Temperatures are favorable and perfect for a day time trekking adventure.
Spring season is a great scenic time in the region. Wildflowers like Rhododendron bloom all over trails making them attractive and pleasant. Spring season also has clear skies and a stable weather season. You can trek with a lot of fellow trekkers enjoying majestic Himalayan views.
Besides that, you can also trek in offseasons. There are risks of avalanches and landslides in summer monsoon seasons due to heavy rainfall. The Winter season brings heavy snowfall and extreme freezing temperatures which makes trekking difficult. However, with proper packing and preparation, you can complete this trek with ease.
How Difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Everest Base Camp trek is a moderately challenging trek. Trekkers need to trek long distances in rugged terrain. High altitude is one of the most challenging factors of this trek. Altitude sickness caused by high altitude, less oxygen, and air pressure is one significant challenge for trekkers.
Hence, trekkers require proper acclimatization and regular hydration. A professional guide will help you take breaks and acclimatize. You can also take Diamox tablets to tackle altitude sickness if the symptoms persist. One pro tip is to trek slowly and not ascend more than 600m in altitude in a day. A basic level of fitness is essential for trekking for long hours in rugged conditions.
A proper training regime that includes strength and endurance training, mental preparation, and cardiovascular activities is essential for trek. Hiking, swimming, cycling, and other activities will help you along trails as well. Protein and carbohydrate intake during the trek should get increased as you. Overall, the Everest Base Camp trek is moderate to extreme in difficulty based on trekking routes.
Similar articles you may like:
- Location of Mount Everest 8848m
- Everest Base Camp to Summit
- How Long Does It Take To Climb Mt. Everest?
The Final Say
Mount Everest peak has an extreme environment and freezing temperatures all round year. Unpredictable storms and freezing temperatures are quite common in the Everest region. The warmest temperature of -19 degrees Celsius or -2 degrees Fahrenheit in July and the coldest temperature is around -36 degrees Celsius or -33 degrees Fahrenheit in January.
The Mt Everest summit also reaches the lower limit of the jet stream with hurricane-force winds that can hit 285 km/h (177 mph) which is a jet stream. Overall, Mt. Everest’s temperature is extremely low and remains below freezing temperatures throughout the year. January is the coldest month whereas July is the hottest. We hope you learned about Mount Everest’s temperature in detail.
