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Helicopter search suspended for missing US climbers in Pakistan

The climbers’ initial plan included five days for the climb and descent, the Alpine Club of Pakistan said.

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The families of two American mountaineers missing in Pakistan have called off search and rescue efforts after nearly two weeks.

Dempster and Adamson were known in the climbing community for their expertise in the sport.

They have not been seen since August 22, the day before a storm hit the mountain.

Family spokesman Jonathan Thesenga said Saturday that improved conditions would allow helicopters to search for the men – the first weather break in 10 days.

“Given the time that has elapsed and the almost continuous stormy weather since they were last seen, and the substantial risks that such high-altitude missions entail, Kyle and Scott’s families have made the extremely hard decision to end the search efforts”, according to a statement the families issued.

Dempster, 33, and Adamson, 34, both of Utah, are two of the most accomplished alpinists of their generation.

The pair were attempting the first ever ascent of the north face of Ogre II, which is part of a grouping of mountains called Baintha Brakk. He last won in 2013 for a climb he did with others in the same area in Pakistan. The two friends tried to summit the treacherous north face of Ogre 2 past year – but turned back after Adamson fell and broke his leg, according to CNN affiliate KUTV. Adamson broke his leg after a 100-foot fall and the two fell again 400 feet while trying to get down the mountain.

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Black Diamond Equipment, an outdoor company sponsoring Dempster, tolf NBC News the families had decided not ask for further searches. “You use your pool of experience and common sense and intuition to help make decisions and mitigate the dangers”.

Karrar Haidri a spokesperson for the Alpine Club of Pakistan said helicopter-search was suspended after authorities did not get go-ahead for today from families of two climbers