Lakpa says Al is okay, but had just decided not to continue the climb. When he called, Al, Vern, and Lakpa were safe at Camp IV at the South Col, and by now Al is probably snoring away in his tent.
Vern and Lakpa were planning to join the second group departing the South Col around 10pm and are once again heading up the mountain. In addition to Vern and Lakpa, the second group includes Luis, Jose Luis, Mike, Cleve, Karl, and Arnold, as well as Pemba Rengee, Mingma, and Kami Rita Sherpa.
So at the time of this report all Alpine Ascents climbers have left Camp IV and are well on their way, except Al, who will be waiting at Camp IV.
While here at Base Camp it is still cloudy with snow flurries, the folks at Camp IV report that they continue to have excellent conditions for the climb - cold and clear. We hope that continues for them all the way to the top and back down again.
We haven't heard from Willi and Joe for a while, but we figure they are beyond the triangular face and are continuing on toward the balcony. We will be listening for their call when they get the chance to get their radio out.
Here at Base Camp we are slowing down on our consumption of dudh chia (milk tea), and I can't believe we just turned down Ong Chhu's offer to make popcorn. We have finished off the first can of Pringles. Bryce and I have been joined by Ben, a British magazine reporter, and Adriano, an Italian neighbor whose partner is also attempting the summit tonight. Their added conversation should help us stay awake for a little while longer, although we may soon start trading off for cat naps.
So our thoughts and best wishes are with Al. While we're all disappointed, we know Al has a good head on his shoulders and is making the decision that is right for him.
Goodnight for now from Everest Base Camp.
— Ellie Henke, Alpine Ascents International Base Camp Manager & Bryce Brown, Expedition Doctor, MountainZone.com Correspondents
