Surviving the Eiger: Cold Fronts and Climbing in Extreme Conditions
In Surviving the Eiger: Cold Fronts and Climbing in Extreme Conditions, Steve Backshall and his team face the deadly challenge of climbing the Eiger’s north face, one of the world’s most dangerous mountains. With temperatures dropping as low as -70°C (-94°F), they must decide if a three-day climb is possible. As they trek through deep snow, they learn why the climb is harder than it was 80 years ago. Will they wait for safer conditions, or will the cold make them turn back? This video is excerpted from BBC’s Steve Backshall vs. the Vertical Mile, a show in which Steve and his team take on one of the deadliest mountain climbs in the world — the north face of the Eiger.
Lesson Express
Q: In what ways do the climbers’ actions — such as their decision to assess the weather conditions before climbing — demonstrate a balance between ambition and caution in high-risk sports like mountaineering?
A: The climbers show a balance between ambition and caution by carefully considering the risks posed by extreme weather before committing to the climb. While they have the drive and determination to succeed, they also prioritize safety by recognizing that pushing forward under unsafe conditions would not only jeopardize their goal but also their lives. This shows the importance of making calculated decisions in high-risk activities like mountaineering.
Q: How is climate change impacting the sport of mountain climbing, and why do climbers today have to climb the Eiger in the winter rather than in the summer?
A: Climbers now have to climb the Eiger in the winter because warmer temperatures have reduced the amount of snow on the mountain. Snow is essential for climbing because it provides better grip and stability. Climbing in the winter, however, introduces extreme cold and harsh weather conditions, which increase the difficulty and danger of the climb.
Q: How might the extreme cold temperatures from the Siberian cold front affect the team’s ability to complete the climb?
A: The Siberian cold front brings temperatures as low as -70°C (-94°F), which can cause instant frostbite. These extreme temperatures make the climb extremely dangerous, especially for prolonged exposure. Such cold conditions could threaten the climbers' safety and prevent them from climbing for an extended period, as it’s too dangerous to endure.