An avalanche at the base camp of Himlung Himal in Nepal’s Manang district has left at least four people dead and 12 others missing, according to the latest reports from rescue officials.
The avalanche struck the mountain area on Sunday morning amid heavy snowfall and worsening weather conditions. Himlung Himal stands at 7,126 metres and is located in the Nar Phu region of Manang, close to Nepal’s border with Tibet.
Rescue teams recovered two bodies on Sunday and two more on Monday. The Nepal National Mountain Guide Association said the four victims were identified as Chhebi Bhote, Pasang Bhote, Birendra Gurung and Ghanshyam Rai. Search operations were continuing for the people still missing.
The incident occurred after the region experienced several days of heavy snowfall. Weather warnings had already been issued, and many climbers and support teams had moved down from the mountain slopes because of concerns about rain, snowfall and avalanche risks.
Expedition organiser Mingma Gyalje Sherpa confirmed that the avalanche struck the base camp. Earlier reports said two members of his kitchen staff were among those missing. Other missing workers and guides were associated with different expedition companies.
A 14-member rescue team was deployed to the area, with helicopters used to transport rescuers towards the base camp. However, difficult weather and mountain conditions have made the search operation challenging.
The severe weather has affected several parts of Nepal. A weather system linked to the Bay of Bengal has brought heavy snowfall to mountain areas and persistent rain to the hills and plains. The conditions have disrupted roads and affected trekking and mountaineering activities.
Nepal’s tourism authorities have advised trekkers and climbers to suspend activities in areas affected by the deteriorating weather. The warnings are particularly important in high-altitude regions where heavy snow can increase the risk of avalanches and make rescue operations more difficult.
Himlung Himal is a popular climbing destination for mountaineers seeking experience at high altitude. The 7,126-metre peak attracts international and local expedition teams, particularly during Nepal’s autumn climbing season.
Rescue teams are continuing to search for the missing workers and guides, while authorities are monitoring weather and mountain conditions. The final number of casualties will depend on the outcome of the ongoing search operation.