An avalanche struck the base camp of Himlung Himal in western Nepal, bordering Tibet, on Sunday morning, leaving at least 10 people missing. According to expedition organiser Mingma Gyalje Sherpa, two of his kitchen staff were among those missing. The avalanche hit after a weather warning was issued last week, prompting expedition teams and rope-fixing teams to evacuate the mountain slopes. However, some people reluctantly stayed back.
The mountain region had witnessed heavy snowfall for several days, forcing climbers to retreat from the autumn ascent of the mountain. Himlung Himal, standing at 7,126 metres in Manang district, requires an additional permit for helicopter flights, adding to the difficulties involved in reaching the mountain. The 7,126-metre peak is a popular objective for climbers seeking experience at high altitude.
Those missing in Sunday's avalanche are from different expedition companies. The incident comes as a weather system over the Bay of Bengal brings heavy snowfall to the mountains and persistent rainfall to Nepal's hills and plains. Rain and snowfall have affected several parts of the country, disrupting roads and prompting local authorities to close several sections to traffic.
Tourism authorities have urged trekkers and climbers to suspend activities as weather conditions deteriorate. The Department of Tourism has also issued an alert advising that tourism activities be put on hold. This recent incident follows last month's devastating floods in Rasuwa, which killed more than 1,400 people and left more than 5,000 missing.
The disaster washed away settlements along the Trishuli River and dealt another blow to Nepal's tourism industry. Persistent rainfall and snowfall have since disrupted several trekking routes and forced the cancellation or suspension of major expeditions on Manaslu and Dhaulagiri. Climbers and trekkers are facing challenges in the region due to the adverse weather conditions.
Earlier, in August, the remains of three of Nepal's most decorated high-altitude guides and climbers returned home to grieving families after a massive avalanche swept them off Pakistan's Broad Peak. The climbers, identified as Kili Pemba Sherpa, Gyalu Sherpa, and Nima Sherpa, were among 10 climbers killed in the avalanche on July 30.
The incident highlights the risks faced by climbers and trekkers in the region, particularly during periods of adverse weather conditions. Authorities and tourism operators are working to ensure the safety of those involved in tourism activities, while also responding to the challenges posed by the recent disasters.
Key points
- 10 people missing after avalanche at Himlung Himal base camp
- Adverse weather conditions disrupt tourism activities in Nepal
- Recent disasters highlight risks faced by climbers and trekkers in the region
