A record-breaking 274 climbers successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest on Wednesday (May 20), taking advantage of clear weather conditions, according to officials in Nepal. This new record surpasses the previous high of 223 climbers from the southern face on May 22, 2019. The ascent was confirmed by Rishi Ram Bhandari of the Expedition Operators Association Nepal.

This year's climbing season faced delays due to a large serac blocking the route, which was only cleared on May 13. The delay led to concerns about overcrowding, as nearly 500 climbers had permits to scale the peak this year. Despite these challenges, climbers seized the opportunity provided by favorable weather conditions to make their ascent.

The northern route in Tibet remained closed this year, limiting climbers to the southern face in Nepal. The closure contributed to the high number of climbers on the Nepalese side. Khimlal Gautam, a tourism department official, reported that the climbs began at 3 a.m. and continued for 11 hours.

While the record number of ascents is a testament to the determination of climbers, it also raises concerns about safety and overcrowding on the mountain. Photographs have shown long lines of climbers in the "death zone," a section above 8,000 meters where oxygen levels are critically low.

This season has also seen notable achievements, including veteran guide Kami Rita Sherpa scaling the peak for the 32nd time, and Lakpa Sherpa setting a new record for female climbers with her 11th ascent.

Brandi Carlile

The Human Tour

with Stephen Wilson Jr.