KATHMANDU: A team of four Sherpas that was setting off to attempt a record winter ascent of Mount Everest in just five days was canceled due to the bad weather.

Team leader Tashi Lakpa Sherpa said that they are compelled to return from below the Camp-3 due to fresh snowfall. Mt Everest is having a continuous snowfall for 34 hours and it takes at least 3 days to be cleared and to go up in a safer way, Sherpa said.

He added, “Breathless Winter Everest Speed Climbing 2020”’s timeframe won’t be able to accomplish. In Nepal 29th February is the end of the winter. So, our winter expedition ascent validity is only for the end of February. Therefore, our team and Sherpas decided to end this expedition. Our highest point reached for the expedition will be noted /recorded just below the camp-3”.

He was accompanied by Pasang Nurbu Sherpa, Ming Temba Sherpa, and Halung Dorchi Sherpa — who all have at least two Everest summits under their belt.

The last successful winter ascent was in 1993 by a Japanese team.