Avalanches Trap 1,000 Tourists in China's Xinjiang Region

Rescue operations underway amidst challenging conditions and forecast of continued extreme weather.

Approximately 1,000 tourists are stranded in the remote holiday village of Hemu in China's northwestern Xinjiang region due to avalanches blocking road access.
Heavy snowfall, reaching up to 23 feet in some areas, has triggered dozens of avalanches, making evacuation efforts challenging.
Rescue operations have included airlifting injured individuals and flying in necessary supplies such as food and fuel.
Despite the challenging conditions, rescuers have managed to clear a snow-blocked road linking Hemu village to major roads, allowing vehicles to enter and tourists to drive themselves out.
The situation remains precarious with the forecast of continued extreme weather, and the Kanas scenic area, where Hemu village is located, will be closed until at least January 20.