To determine the elevation of base camp, we start with Helene's initial elevation and then account for her descent.
- Helene starts at an elevation of 33 feet above sea level.
- She descends 46 feet.
We calculate the elevation of base camp as follows:
\[ \text{Elevation at base camp} = \text{Initial elevation} - \text{Descent} \] \[ \text{Elevation at base camp} = 33 \text{ feet} - 46 \text{ feet} = -13 \text{ feet} \]
Since -13 feet indicates that base camp is below sea level, we can express this as:
\[ \text{Elevation at base camp} = 13 \text{ feet below sea level} \]
Thus, the correct answer is:
13 feet below sea level.