'Danger over' as frostbitten Italian reaches K2 base camp

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

GILGIT, Pakistan (AFP) — A frostbitten Italian climber limped into K2 base camp Tuesday after an ice fall that killed 11 others, but swirling cloud prevented helicopters plucking him from the world's second highest peak.

Marco Confortola, believed to be the only survivor of Friday's catastrophic avalanche, finally hobbled into the 5,200-metre (17,060-foot) camp with his toes blackened by exposure to sub-zero temperatures, officials said.

"The danger is over," said Ashraf Aman, head of mountaineering company Adventure Tours Pakistan, which has played a key role in rescue operations.

"Marco has reached the main base camp, he is recovering. The base camp has facilities to provide him with immediate medical help like oxygen and drugs, so he will improve...