Into Thin Air

Into Thin Air

Part 1

     When hearing the true story of Jon Krakauer's climb to the top of Mount Everest I began to wonder about the condition of the mountain regarding the temperature and altitude.  On page fifty three of "Into Thin Air" Jon has reached the lower end of the Khumbu Glacier and at 16,000 feet up he is feeling the effects of the altitude. Stating "despite our measured pace I had begun to feel the effects of the altitude, which left me light-headed and constantly fighting for breath." 

     According to Mt. Everest Information the climate and altitude levels of Mt. Everest are very severe.  Mt. Everest is home to the winds called the Jet Stream. The Jet Stream is a constant wind force that blows 4-6 miles above earth and can reach 118+ miles per hour at the top of Mt. Everest. Following this Mt. Everest is extremely hard to climb because, as the altitude increases the oxygen content thins out making it harder to breathe. According to Mt. Everest Information at 29,035 ft, the summit of Everest, there is only a third of the oxygen in the air. Due to this fact almost all climbers use oxygen cylinders which allow them to breathe. 

    After researching the specifics of Mt. Everest I find it particularly amazing that people are willing to risk their lives to make it to the top of the mountain. And although it may be dangerous if the person ,such a Jon Kraukauer is passionate about the climb, they will be able to reach the top as long as they prepare themselves and know what is necessary in order to survive the harsh conditions.