Everest Base Camp Weather

The weather in the world’s highest mountain- Mt. Everest is above freezing, which can go near -60°C to even low. Despite, having the extreme temperature at the summit, the Everest Base camp weather is not as harsh as at the summit.

However, during the time of winter season and monsoon season, the Everest Base Camp temperature can also drop to -20°C on average at night. But the problem is not only about the extreme coldness in EBC (Everest Base Camp); it’s the hurricane, fog, and heavy snowfall that makes it dangerous.

commiting the Everest Base Camp trek (EBC) without a plan and knowledge about the weather can be very deadly too. Elevating to 5364m without planning and enough information about the place is foolishness. Proper caution can prevent a lot of struggles that we might face during the trek.

So, here’s some information and tips about the trek to Everest Base Camp in different weather conditions.

Temperature graph of EBC throughout the year

Everest Base Camp weather throughout the year.

And the first factor that affects the Everest Base Camp trek is the weather. Similarly, the Everest base camp temperature also fluctuates according to season. So, here is the list of Everest base camp weather that shouldn’t be underestimated:

Everest Base Camp weather in the winter season:

Everyone knows that winter means cold which falls from December to February. Similarly, winter in Everest Base Camp is also the same but it’s way more freezing than normal. But, despite having unstable weather and extreme cold, some people are willing to trek to Everest Base Camp.

Everest region in this season gets dry and clear aside from morning mist and once in a while snowfall. Similarly, the temperature during the day is 10°C, and at night gets -15°C on average. Likewise, days are shorter and nights are longer compared to other seasons.

However, I’m not saying that it is impossible to do trekking at Everest Base Camp. As I mentioned above, there are still daring people who are willing to call out to the Everest base camp weather and take the challenges and do the EBC trek but only in December and mid-February.

Everest Base Camp weather in December:

It is the beginning month of the winter season. During the morning and evening in the Everest region, it gets very cold. Although, trekkers can enjoy brilliant weather during the day. The sky gets clear as a crystal that provides a sharp view of the surroundings. The average Everest base camp temperature during the day is around 15°C and the average Everest base camp temperature at night is around -14°C.

Everest Base Camp weather in January :

Similarly, the weather gets colder in January. The temperature reaches 4°C during the day and falls to a minimum temperature of -20°C at night. That’s why January is known as the coldest month of the year and trekkers will experience a lot of snowfall on the way to Everest Base Camp. That is why we recommend you not to take the risk this month.

Everest Base Camp weather in February:

It is the last month of the winter season. The weather has slightly started getting warmer this month. The maximum temperature in the daytime is 4°C and at night the temperature drops to -15°C. At the beginning of the Everest Base Camp trek, trekkers can enjoy a comfortable hike with moderate temperatures. In this month days are brighter with the clean sky providing jaw-dropping mountain peaks covered with snow.

The Winter season can be an incredible time to trek Everest Base Camp since this season offers you a glorious view of Everest. Very fewer numbers of trekkers choose the winter season for Everest Base Camp so, that you’ll get a lot of options for accommodations and have your own space and time to enjoy the spectacular views. In addition, supers are less expensive than different seasons.

So, what should you know before trekking in the winter season at Everest Base Camp:

Best tips for Everest Base Camp trekking in the Winter season:

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in the winter can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Check weather conditions: Winter in the Everest region can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for cold and potentially harsh conditions.
2. Pack appropriate gear: Make sure to pack warm, insulated clothing, including thermal layers, a down jacket, gloves, hats, and sturdy hiking boots. Don’t forget to bring a good quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures.
3. Stay hydrated and nourished: It’s easy to become dehydrated at high altitudes, even in cold weather. Drink plenty of water and eat calorie-dense foods to maintain your energy levels.
4. Acclimatize properly: Take your time to acclimatize to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Plan your trek with enough rest days built-in and ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust.
5. Be prepared for shorter daylight hours: In winter, the days are shorter, so plan your trekking days accordingly. Start early in the morning to make the most of daylight hours and ensure you reach your destination before dark.
6. Consider hiring a guide: If you’re not experienced in winter trekking or high-altitude trekking, consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour. They can provide valuable support, expertise, and assistance in navigating the terrain and dealing with any challenges that may arise.
7. Stay informed about trail conditions: Winter weather can affect trail conditions, including snow and ice accumulation. Stay informed about trail conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
8. Carry essential safety equipment: Pack a first aid kit, a map, a compass or GPS device, and a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries. Be prepared for emergencies and know how to respond to common trekking-related injuries and ailments.

Well, you may be a hiker or athletic and know about trekking in Nepal too. And yes, you can do the trekking at Everest Base Camp also but there’s a difference between “you can” and “you have”. If someone says that you can trek to Everest Base Camp then they might be true. But, at the time autumn and spring season only. Question yourself and your physical and mental fitness because Everest base camp temperature can go down to -14°.

Likewise, if you have already trekked at Everest Base Camp then, you will know how you can trek in the winter season also. It means that a professional trekker won’t need a guide.

Spring season in Everest Base Camp:

Spring season, also known as “Nature season” is the best time to do trekking at Everest Base Camp. The days become warmer to lower altitude areas i.e. 3000ft in this season. Whereas, the whole area of EBC is decorated by lush forests of Rhododendron, pine trees, and more. The Mount Everest base camp weather is a lot more favorable in the spring season than in other seasons.

March, April, and May fall under spring in Nepal. This season provides 7 hours of daily sunlight. The days are warm and clear which means the Everest region starts to get hotter. Similarly, the Spring season is the windiest season among all those four seasons. Therefore, trekkers will encounter 38km/hr of strong wind during the spring season.

Because the Everest base camp temperature in the spring season gets 22°C in the daytime, it’s the perfect time to leave your house and do trekking in Nepal/EBC. You can see the true color of nature as well as some endangered species in the winter season.

However, be ready to face the rush hour at this time because you will meet lots of other trekkers also. Similarly, due to limited accommodations on the Everest Base Camp trail, you can see lots of tents also. The tent might not be the best option for everyone, so the question of ‘where to stay at Everest base camp’ might arise frequently in your mind. If you are traveling with a guide then you will have very minimum problems regarding accommodation.

Everest Base Camp weather in March:

In March, the Everest base camp temperature is perfectly moderate for the Everest Base Camp trek and trekkers can experience the warm sunshine. The average Mount Everest base camp temperature rises up to 7°C and falls to -12°C at night.

Everest Base Camp weather in April :

This month offers trekkers perfect weather to trek i.e. neither hot nor cold. Additionally, the unexpected possibility of rain is very low during the Everest Base Camp trek. The Everest base camp temperature rises to 10°C and falls to 5°C at night.

Everest Base Camp weather in May:

The weather remains ideal in May. During May, the temperature rises to 15°C during the day and falls to 0°C at night. However, this is the last month of spring, so trekkers might experience of slight rainfall during the trek.

Best Tips for Everest Base Camp Trekking in Spring Season:

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in the spring season offers milder temperatures and stunning views of blooming rhododendrons. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trek:

1. Book in advance: Spring is a popular time for trekking in the Everest region, so make sure to book your accommodations and permits well in advance to secure your spot.
2. Pack layers: While the days can be warm and pleasant, temperatures can still drop significantly at higher elevations and during the evenings. Pack layers that you can easily add or remove to adapt to changing weather conditions.
3. Stay hydrated: Hydration is crucial at high altitudes, especially when trekking. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent altitude-related illnesses and maintain your energy levels.
4. Protect yourself from the sun: The sun’s rays can be intense at high altitudes, so make sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin and eyes from sunburn and glare.
5. Be prepared for variable weather: Spring weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and occasional rain or snow showers. Bring waterproof layers and be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
6. Acclimatize properly: Take your time to acclimatize to the high altitude by ascending gradually and incorporating rest days into your itinerary. Listen to your body and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue.
7. Enjoy the blooming rhododendrons: Spring is the time when rhododendrons bloom in the Everest region, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of these flowers as you trek through the mountains.

Apart from the weather, many factors might affect your trek during Nepal. So, it’s best to do your homework and get enough tips and information to avoid every obstacle during the trek in Everest base camp.

Monsoon/Summer season in Everest Base Camp:

The monsoon/Summer season in Everest base camp is the season of rain, fog, thunder, and mist in Nepal that falls from June to August. Even though the temperature gets 28°C in the daytime at Everest Base Camp, it’s still the bad season for trekking. You may ask why.

Because weather in this season can be quite unpredictable you shouldn’t challenge the weather in this season. At the time of monsoon season, the wind blows at 16km/hrs and even more. Similarly, the main thing that affects trekking is the path. Because the path will be blocked by snow there will be no flights due to weather, and you won’t reach any near Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp weather in June:

This month, the Everest base camp temperature rises from 18°C in the daytime and drops to 0°C at night. However, due to frequent rainfall, the trail gets slippery.

Everest Base Camp weather in July:

The monsoon season in July indicates the off-season for trekking in Nepal due to rainfall and muddy trails. But trekkers can catch the sharpest view of mountains after rainfall. The Everest base camp temperature rises to 18 degrees Celsius during the day and falls to 5°C at night.

Everest Base Camp weather in August:

It marks the end of the monsoon season. From this month the possibility of rain decreases and trekkers can enjoy the green vegetation along with various kinds of flowers. Trekkers can see high-flow rivers and waterfalls. In addition, this month offers you a breathtaking panorama view of mountains with the dramatic effect of clouds. The average Everest base camp temperature rises to 18°C at day and falls up to 7°C at night.

Essentially, most trekkers don’t plan for Everest Base Camp during this season due to muddy, slippery trails, difficulty in walking, fluffy walks, and unpredictable weather.

Autumn season in Everest Base Camp:

After the spring season- the harvest season, autumn is the best season for trekking in Nepal. The rainfall slowly stops at the start of autumn and provides a clear view of the mountains. Every trekker can enjoy 7 hours of sunlight every day. Each month of autumn is neither hot nor cold in the Everest region. The Everest base camp temperature rises to 20°C during the day and falls up to -10°C at night.

September in Everest Base Camp:

Being the first month of the Autumn season- September indicates the end of the monsoon and temperature slowly starts to decrease in the Everest region. This month the Everest base camp temperature is unpredictable. September month includes little rain with a maximum temperature of 15°C during the day and 2°C in the morning. Furthermore, in September trekkers can enjoy wonderful views of the mountains.

October in Everest Base Camp:

It is one of the best seasons in Everest base camp for trekking as it offers less chance of rain and snowfall. Also, it has the most stable weather conditions. Therefore, trekkers can have splendid views of mountains without fog and clouds. The Everest base camp temperature in the daytime is 12°C and the temperature falls to -6°C at night time.

November in Everest Base Camp:

Sunny and bright day welcome you to November. This last month of autumn indicates the pre-winter which demonstrates the winter season. So, the Everest base camp temperature rises to 6°C at day and falls to -12°C at night. Every trekker should be prepared with warm clothes during this month. Similarly, the Autumn season has the driest months which means weather conditions are all favorable neither hot nor cold. This season is the most comfortable and agreeable for trekking in Nepal.

Cloud formation in Everest Base Camp

At Everest Base Camp, cloud formation patterns can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions. During the morning, you might see clouds forming at lower altitudes and gradually rising as the day progresses due to the warming of the air. In the afternoon, clouds often gather around the peaks of the mountains, including Mount Everest, creating dramatic vistas. In the evening, temperatures cool down, causing clouds to descend once again. Additionally, the Himalayas can generate their weather systems, so conditions can change rapidly. Climbers and trekkers need to stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in cloud cover.

Weather Forecasting and its Accuracy in Everest Base Camp

The “Pyramid Station,” located at Lobuche, is the closest weather station to the summit. Located at 5,079 meters above sea level, the weather station has been operational since 2006. Climbers depend on accurate forecasts at the peak, and many teams employ meteorologists to generate spot weather forecasts every day. Large-scale weather models are combined with observations from the ground to provide forecasts. The temperature differential between the base camp and the summit is typically estimated to be +1ºC for every 150 meters of elevation gain.

The accuracy of weather forecasting at Everest Base Camp can vary depending on various factors such as the time of year, the complexity of weather patterns, and the availability of data and forecasting tools. In recent years, advancements in technology and an improved understanding of atmospheric processes have led to more accurate weather predictions overall. However, due to the extreme and rapidly changing weather conditions in the Everest region, forecasts can still be challenging, particularly for longer time horizons.

Local meteorological stations, satellite imagery, and computer models are typically used to generate forecasts for the Everest region. While these tools have improved forecasting accuracy, there can still be uncertainties, especially in predicting sudden changes in weather such as storms or high winds.

For climbers and trekkers planning trips to Everest Base Camp, it’s essential to monitor weather forecasts from reliable sources and be prepared for a wide range of conditions. Additionally, consulting with experienced guides or local experts can provide valuable insights into interpreting weather forecasts and making informed decisions while in the mountains.

Does it snow in the Everest base camp?

Mt Everest is completely covered in snow throughout the year. But it’s a different story in Everest base camp, it is cold all the time but maximum snow falls during the winter season. Starting from the end of November, December, January, to February there is a high chance of snowfall. You must gear up with warm clothes, gloves, caps, and other different essential equipment. Snow can be very fun to watch but we must be cautious.