Japanese climber dies in Peru

ISTANBUL

A Japanese climber stranded on Mount Huascaran, Peru's highest mountain, has died, Kyodo News reported on Thursday citing a group supporting the climbers.

Chiaki Inada, 40, died after she and fellow climber Saki Terada, 35, called for help Tuesday while ascending the 6,768-meter (22,204-foot) peak. They had reached an altitude of about 6,600 meters (21,653 feet) when they issued the distress call.

Terada was found alive and is currently being brought down the mountain by a rescue team, according to Wilderness Medical Associates Japan, which is coordinating efforts with local rescue authorities.

Both climbers, who arrived in Peru in early June, were experienced mountaineers. Inada also worked as a mountain doctor, and the pair had reportedly prepared thoroughly for the expedition.

Inada was reportedly immobile due to suspected hypothermia when the rescue was requested, according to the group, of which she was a member.

Rescue efforts have been hindered by snow-covered terrain and severe weather conditions.