Avalanche roars through closed-off Xinjiang glacier as tourists film the scene

An avalanche struck Glacier No. 2 on Mount Muztagh Ata in China’s Xinjiang region near the Tajikistan border, sending a massive flow of snow and ice through an uninhabited valley as tourists recorded the event on their phones. Authorities reported no casualties or property damage because the avalanche occurred far from major roads and populated areas. Glacier No. 2 is closed to the public because of the risk of glacial activity, difficult terrain, rapidly changing weather, weak communications and limited rescue access. Local officials have warned tourists not to enter the restricted area or undertake activities such as hiking, exploration, crossing or photography there.