Warren Eva Safe as Avalanche Hits the Annapurna Mountain
There was a moment of collective exhale at Base Camp of the Annapurna Mountain on Tuesday, as South African mountaineer Warren Eva returned to safety after a harrowing climb and descent on one of the world’s most dangerous peaks.
Eva made history early Tuesday morning when he became the first South African to summit the Annapurna Mountain — the world’s 10th highest mountain, rising 8,091 meters above sea level. But the achievement was hard-earned, forged in the face of deadly conditions and heartbreak.
He and lifelong climbing partner John Black set off for the summit on Sunday, pushing through -30°C temperatures, technical ice climbing and the constant threat of avalanches. But in the early hours of the final ascent, John Black made the decision to turn back.
When the Right Call is to Turn Back
For Black, the choice to turn back from the summit was anything but simple — but ultimately, a deeply personal and principled decision.
“I was strong, healthy, moving fast, warm and feeling good. I had no convenient excuses. But I felt I was not in a good position to reasonably and safely take on the infamous Annapurna Mountain.
I hadn’t properly acclimatised, we were chasing a narrow weather window, and Camp 4 hadn’t been established — meaning a brutally long summit push from Camp 3. I’ve always promised those closest to me that I would climb as sensibly and safely as I can. And the circumstances I had put myself in were contrary to that.
Yes, it is massively disappointing. Yes, I would have dearly loved to stand on top with Warren. And yes, this will hurt for a long time. But I can go home to my wife, my son, my family and friends with my promise intact. Almost 24 hours has passed since then, and I am still entirely comfortable with my decision.”
Avalanche Hits Annapurna Mountain
While Eva pressed on alone, Black began his descent — only to face a terrifying reminder of the Annapurna Mountains’s dangers. Shortly after crossing a crevasse with a group of Sherpas, he paused to rest. Just ten minutes later, a massive avalanche thundered down the mountain.
“It started small, then gained power rapidly — snow, ice, wind, everything flying,” he recalled. “I wasn’t sure if I was in its path. By the time it hit me, I was on the edge, but it was still powerful.”
As the snow settled, Black realised the Sherpas he had seen minutes earlier were gone. He raised the alarm over radio and helped coordinate a headcount. Despite efforts on the ground and by helicopter, the Sherpas were not found and are presumed to have been swept into a crevasse and buried under snow and ice.
Tribute to a Mountain Legend After a Hero’s Return
“It’s devastating,” said Black. “A reminder of how volatile and unforgiving these mountains can be.”
Despite the tragedy and physical toll, Eva made it safely back to Base Camp later on Tuesday after a punishing 18-hour summit push followed by a 12-hour descent through Annapurna’s most treacherous terrain.
Integral to Warren’s success was Kaji Sherpa — the quiet mountain legend who accompanied him to the top. In a heartfelt message, the team paid tribute to their guide and partner:
“There are no words strong enough to express our eternal gratitude to Kaji Sherpa – a true mountain legend whose strength, knowledge, and unwavering spirit climbed with Warren safely through the mighty Annapurna.
In Honour of Kaji Sherpa
Climbing one of the world’s most dangerous peaks is no small feat, and with Kaji’s steady hand, deep wisdom of the mountain, and incredible endurance it made this journey not only possible but unforgettable. Through every challenge, every freezing wind, and every moment of doubt about routes and avalanches, Kaji stood strong — a quiet force of nature.
Thank you, Kaji, for your selfless dedication, your unmatched skill, and for sharing the mountain with us. This climb was more than a physical journey — it was a lesson in humility, trust, and true partnership. We salute you, Kaji Sherpa!”
In Closing
The climb was marked by grit, brotherhood, and tragedy — a stark reminder of the mountain’s power, and the unbreakable spirit of those who dare to face it. For more updates and details on Warren Eva’s journey up the Annapurna Mountain, tune in to Hot Fm now.
Check out some of the photos:
Look back at The Annapurna Ascent here:
Read more from HOT 1027:
HOT 1027 kicks off the Easter weekend with a school sports try-fest!
Houses before spouses: Why young South Africans are rethinking property
The costly truth about ‘free’ travel insurance
Rugby, rivalry & roars: St John’s Easter Rugby Festival returns for 2025
Who the heck Is Hans?: HOT Breakfast goes rogue with their phone contacts
Golfing with grace: A tongue-in-cheek top 10 for everyday hackers
