Tragedy on K2

Over the weekend, at least 11 climbers have died on K2, the world's second-highest mountain. While K2 is known to be exceptionally dangerous, the death toll is the highest on record. According to rescued climbers, a large pillar of overhanging ice broke off, resulting in an avalanche that smashed into the mountaineers and swept away fixed ropes necessary for a safe descent. Climbers who survived the crushing ice were caught on a notorious area of K2 known as "The Bottleneck." This portion of the final ascent is steep section of the mountain above 8000 meters, an altitude climbers call "the death zone" because of the dangerously low level of oxygen. Climbers stranded on the mountain had no choice other than to attempt the perilous climb down, even without the guiding ropes. Without these fixed lines, it is possible that several climbers fell to their deaths attempting a decent.

The Pakistani military started rescue operations early Monday, but the high altitude makes their efforts difficult because helicopters are unable to fly to K2's summit. However, rescue attempts have been scaled back as hope for finding survivors dies. Most people are unable to survive the death zone's sub-zero temperatures and low oxygen level for longer than 24 hours.

While K2 is shorter than Everest, it is reputed to be the more dangerous of the two mountains. Further north than Everest, K2 boasts of brutal weather and violent storms. The slopes of K2 are also viciously steep; the mountain is a technically difficult climb even on top of its incredible height. According to recordings, the fatality rate for climbers who attain K2's summit is three times that of those who summit Mount Everest.

In 1856 K2 received its title from surveyor Thomas Mongomerie, who named the mountain "K" after the area of Karokoram where it is located. The "2" comes from the fact that it was the second peak he surveyed. While all the other "K" peaks have received new names, the unimaginative name of K2 has seemingly lasted through the years.

Despite the brutal experience of climbing this peak and the resulting high death tolls, climbers still flock to mountains such as K2 and Mount Everest, in order to conquer one of the last untamable areas of Planet Earth. The mountaineering industry is huge in these areas; locals (who are adapted to the harsh weather and low oxygen) often serve as guides, leading adventurers up the slopes and shuttling supplies up and down the mountain.