If you recall Melanie Southworth was recently interviewed on the podcast as she was embarking on a journey to climb Everest.
On Saturday the 25th of April 2015 Everest and Nepal were hit by a devastating earthquake, followed by crippling aftershocks on Sunday the 26th of April.
News outlets are currently reporting over 2,500 people have lost their lives in this tragedy.
I haven’t heard from Melanie for a while but when she last sent me a message she provided a phone number. I have sent a txt message to that number but not received a response as of yet. However, from Mel’s Facebook page someone has posted an update to the situation. I’m awaiting confirmation but so far as this is the only news I have, and I hope that it is accurate.
The update reads:
“Just to keep everyone posted, Mel is safe and back at basecamp helping with rescue and recovery operations x”
This was posted on Sunday the 26th of April at around 9pm.
If I hear anything more I’ll let you know.
Edit: There has been another update on Mel’s Facebook page:
Update
Mel is in base camp to aid with operations there for another few days before making her way down to one of the more stable villages and ride out the next couple weeks in the valley where there is shelter and supplies. Going back to Kathmandu is not an option at the moment so she has opted to stay in the valley till the situation improves and international flights begin to drain the backlog of people trying to get out.
She is maintaining focus and good spirits all things considered and will update her progress best as possible
Thanks.
Fiona says
Thank you for updating -xx
Foreign and Commonwealth Crisis Centre says
We’re glad to hear that Melanie is safe. If anyone has any more information about Melanie’s progress could please contact [email protected]. This will allow us to keep her record up to date so that we can provide any assistance should she need it.
Thanks
Consular Team
Crisis Centre
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
lee says
I spoke to Mel on Saturday just gone. You can hear that conversation here: https://www.thisisrammy.co.uk/mel-southworth-speaks-to-us-from-everest-episode-10/