In May, the climbers at Mount Everest were embarking on the annual ascent to the summit during the spring climbing season. However, a severe and unexpected blizzard hit the region, drastically altering their plans. The storm developed rapidly, bringing heavy snow, high winds, and dangerously low temperatures. Many climbers, having reached the summit or near it, were caught in the storm and faced dire conditions. The climbing teams, notably led by New Zealand mountaineer Rob Hall and American Scott Fischer, found themselves in life-threatening situations. The blizzard's onset resulted in chaos as communication lines were cut, making it difficult to coordinate rescue missions.

The climbers were isolated at high altitudes, where conditions turned deadly. Despite their experienced and skilled backgrounds, decisions had to be made quickly about whether to turn back or continue climbing. Tragically, many opted to continue, believing they had the ability to push through the brutal weather. As the storm worsened, climbing turned into a struggle for survival, with some climbers losing their lives due to exposure and exhaustion. Rescue teams operated under legislation as the weather conditions prevented them from reaching the stranded climbers in time.

The aftermath revealed the harsh and unforgiving nature of high-altitude climbing as the climbing community grappled with the reality of the risks involved. This incident not only shocked the global mountaineering community but also led to changes in climbing protocols and safety measures in future expeditions to Everest. The tragic events of May 1996 resonate to this day in discussions about adventure, risk, and the management of climbing expeditions in such hazardous conditions.