A search operation is underway for British climber Tom Ballard and his Italian climbing partner Daniele Nardi, who have been missing on Nanga Parbat in Pakistan since Sunday. The pair last made contact from an altitude of approximately 20,500 feet (6,250 metres).
A statement on Mr Nardi's official Facebook page reported that a tent and 'traces of an avalanche' had been spotted from a helicopter. Experienced Pakistani mountaineer Ali Sadpara, the only person to have climbed the peak in winter, is assisting the search aboard a Pakistani army helicopter.
Tom Ballard, 30, is the son of Alison Hargreaves, who died descending from the summit of K2 in 1995, the same year she became the first woman to conquer Everest unaided. He grew up in Fort William, Scotland, after moving there with his sister Kate following their mother's death.
Family friend Ian Sykes expressed optimism that Mr Ballard would be found alive. Kate Ballard posted on Facebook thanking people for their support and urging positive thoughts for their safe return. The Italian ambassador in Pakistan confirmed that the search would resume on Friday morning, weather permitting.
Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth highest mountain, is notoriously difficult to climb and has earned the nickname 'killer mountain' due to numerous deaths. Mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington cautioned against assuming the worst, stating there is still hope the climbers are alive.
