An Indian and a Filipino climber have died on Mount Everest, making them the first casualties of the current climbing season, as reported by Reuters.

Subrata Ghosh, 45, of India, died Thursday below the Hillary Step while descending from the summit. He reportedly refused to descend from the high-altitude "death zone."

Philipp II Santiago, 45, of the Philippines, died on Wednesday while trying to reach South Col. He collapsed while resting in his tent.

Both took part in an international expedition organized by Snowy Horizon Treks. The cause of death will be determined after post-mortem examinations, Reuters claimed.

Nepal has issued 459 climbing permits for Everest this season, which runs through May. About 100 climbers have already reached the summit.