South Col
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| South Col | |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 7,906 metres (25,938 feet) |
| Location | Nepal |
| Range | Khumbu Himal |
| Traversed by | 1952 by a Swiss party |
The South Col usually refers to the southern col between Mount Everest and Lhotse, the first and fourth highest mountains in the world. When climbers attempt to climb Everest from the southeast ridge in Nepal, their final camp (usually camp IV) is situated on the South Col. The South Col is typically ravaged by high winds, leaving it free of significant snow accumulation.
Once on the South Col, climbers have entered the death zone. Climbers typically only have a maximum of two or three days they can endure at this altitude for making summit bids. Clear weather and low winds are critical factors in deciding whether to make a summit attempt. If weather does not cooperate within these short few days, climbers are forced to descend, many all the way back down to Base Camp. Climbers rarely get a second chance to return to the South Col in a specific expedition.
Most climbers will begin using supplemental oxygen once they reach the South Col. Altitude sickness is a significant threat at this elevation and can easily prove fatal.
