An Irishman, who had been taking part in a climb on Mount Everest, has been reported missing.
It is understood that Seamus Lawless, 39, fell while descending the world's highest mountain earlier today.
Local media are reporting that he went missing at an altitude of 8,300 metres, in an area known as the balcony near the summit of Everest.
He had reached the summit of Mount Everest this morning, along with a number of other Irish climbers.
Mr Lawless is a Trinity College professor from Bray in Co Wicklow. He also works with the ADAPT Centre in Trinity College, which develops next generation digital technologies.
He was taking part in the expedition to raise funds for the Barretstown children's charity.
This morning @seamuslawless, Professor at Trinity's @AdaptCentre reached the summit of #MountEverest. Congratulations to you and @irelandeverest team. Your achievement is tremendous. Learn about Seamus and his remarkable journey here: https://t.co/oDftTLdDwt pic.twitter.com/EiUK1ycF5a
— Trinity College Dublin (@tcddublin) May 16, 2019
Staff at TCD say Mr Lawless and his family are "in their thoughts" during what they describe as "this extremely distressing time."
In a statement, the college says "this morning his family, friends and colleagues shared his joy on reaching the peak of Mount Everest. We hope that Seamus is found safely as soon as possible and until then we will be offering any support we can to his family."
The Chief Executive of Barretstown has said "this is a dreadfully upsetting and uncertain time for Seamus and his family."
Dee Ahearn also said the charity's "thoughts, and indeed the thoughts of the entire Barretstown community, are with Seamus, his family and friends."
The Department of Foreign Affairs says it is "aware of media reports and stand ready to provide consular assistance if requested."
