NEARLY 1,000 people have been trapped on Mount Everest after a massive snowstorm.

A huge search operation was launched earlier today to reach the campsites located almost 5,000 metres above ground.

Hundreds of local villagers and rescue teams have been deployed to help remove snow blocking the area.

Some tourists on the mountain have already been brought down, a report said.

Some of the climbers' tents were reportedly damaged by the storm though no deaths have yet been confirmed.

The snowfall began on Friday evening and continued throughout Saturday.

Ticket sales and entry to the Everest Scenic Area were suspended from late Saturday.

Just across the border in Nepal , heavy rains have triggered landslides and flash floods.

The storms have sparked chaos, blocking roads and washin

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