An American woman climber has died and a Sherpa guide has been injured after an avalanche struck the descent route on Makalu, shortly after a successful summit on May 9, 2026.
According to expedition officials, Shelley Johannesen, 53, from Oregon, USA, lost her life when a small avalanche hit the team at around 7,000 metres during their descent.
Her climbing guide, Tawa Sherpa, was injured in the incident and is currently being rescued by fellow climbers, said Navin Trital, Managing Director of Expedition Himalaya, the expedition organiser.
Team Reached Summit at 10:30 AM
Despite the tragic incident, the team had successfully reached the summit earlier in the day.
David Ashley, Shelley Johannesen, Tawa Sherpa, and Phurba Sonam Sherpa stood on top of Makalu at 10:30 a.m. on May 9 after weeks of acclimatization and preparation.
Expedition members described the achievement as the result of “planning, trust, and determination,” with Sherpa guides credited for their support and expertise in high-altitude conditions.
Rescue Operation Underway, Body Recovery Planned of Climber
Officials confirmed that rescue efforts are ongoing for the injured guide. A body recovery mission for Johannesen is expected to be launched once weather and route conditions allow.
Further details of the avalanche and exact circumstances of the incident are still being investigated by expedition authorities.
