Fatalities on Mount Everest: Historical Data

Over 280 Deaths on Everest Since 1922

According to the Himalayan Database, 282 people have died on Mount Everest from 1922 through recent years, with 215 fatalities occurring above the South Col (approx. 7,900 m / 25,900 ft).

Primary Causes

• Altitude sickness (AMS, HAPE, HACE)
• Avalanches and icefall collapse
• Falls and crevasse accidents
• Exposure / hypothermia
• Exhaustion and medical conditions

Context

While tragic, the death rate has declined relative to total summit attempts due to better forecasting, equipment, oxygen systems, and commercial guiding. Still, Everest remains inherently high-risk.