Rising 4,095 metres above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is one of Malaysia’s most iconic natural wonders.
Located in Sabah, this majestic peak attracts thousands of climbers each year—from seasoned mountaineers to first-time hikers, eager to experience the breathtaking sunrise views from the summit.
Photo via Instagram (@mt.kinabalu)
But scaling Southeast Asia’s tallest peak is no walk in the park. The mountain’s high altitude, unpredictable weather, and challenging terrain demand both physical fitness and mental readiness. Sudden storms, plunging temperatures, and slippery trails are just some of the risks involved. That’s why it’s always crucial to climb with a licensed guide, never alone. These guides are trained to handle emergencies and know the mountain’s terrain better than anyone else.
On Thursday morning, 10 July, climbers were reminded of just how dangerous the mountain can be. A sudden downpour triggered flash floods on the descent routes, turning the usually manageable trails into rushing streams of water.
Around 6am, as climbers were making their way towards Panalaban Base Camp, torrents of water came pouring down the slopes. Videos that have since gone viral on social media show climbers carefully navigating the dangerous path, holding onto safety ropes while battling through the surge.
Conditions were far from ideal, temperatures reportedly dropped to 1°C and wind speeds hit up to 20km/h, making the descent even more difficult and risky.
Thankfully, according to reports from The Borneo Post, no injuries were reported.
To anyone planning a climb up Mount Kinabalu: always prioritise safety, stay informed on weather conditions, and never underestimate the power of nature.
We’re glad everyone made it down safely. We hope everyone is safe and well!
