Everest South Side Expedition
Miura Japanese Everest 2003 Expedition

Update 11 May 21st 2003: Dear EverestNews.com,

As we have anticipated our final attack to the summit today, we are once again intervened by unfavorable weather condition and are forced to stand-by at C5 for one more day.

According to the report from the base camp, the supporting Sherpas at C4 were unable to advance to C5 due high wind earlier this morning and later, a heavy fog over South Col (7900m). Because they were responsible for bringing up the oxygen supply and the ropes for route fixing (above South Ridge) to the summit, the summit team had no choice but to stay put at C5.

There are a total of 6 members at C5 at the moment; Yuichiro, Gota, Muraguchi, and 3 Sherpas. They will remain at C5 today, and will resume their summit attack tomorrow.

The supporting Sherpas at C4 will try to advance to the C5 today as soon as the fog clears up, and will try to establish the climbing route for tomorrow's attempt.

The weather forecasts suggests worsening of condition from day after tomorrow. Thus, tomorrow is suggested may be the first chance for the summit this season from the Southeast Ridge Route.

Dispatches