The Death Zone: What Happens Above 8,000m?

The Ticking Clock

Above 8,000m, human life cannot be sustained. This is the 'Death Zone'. On a Mount Everest expedition, climbers enter this zone for the final push, racing against their own deteriorating bodies.

Oxygen Starvation

The body starts consuming its own muscle for energy. Digestion shuts down. Thinking becomes slow. Even with bottled oxygen, you are slowly dying every minute you stay near the Mount Everest summit.

Decision Making

Hypoxia causes poor judgment. Climbers feel warm when they are freezing or want to sleep in the snow. This is why strict turnaround times are enforced by guides during Everest trekking peaks and expeditions.

Recovery is Impossible

You cannot recover in the Death Zone. If you get sick or exhausted, the only cure is to descend. Rescue is incredibly difficult because helicopters cannot land this high.

The Ultimate Test

Surviving the Death Zone requires physical fitness, mental discipline, and the wisdom to turn back if needed.