Nepal has urged tourists to exercise caution as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast across several provinces from September 25 to 27. ..reports Asian Lite News Desk
Nepal has issued a safety advisory for tourists after weather authorities forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several parts of the country from September 25 to 27, weeks after devastating floods claimed hundreds of lives.
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) urged visitors to exercise caution, particularly in mountainous and high altitude areas, river basins and locations vulnerable to landslides, as weather conditions could change rapidly.
The advisory follows the deadly floods of August 26, which have claimed 1,451 lives and left 5,705 people missing, including 636 foreigners, according to figures released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority as of Tuesday evening.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) on Tuesday forecast extremely heavy rainfall in several areas of eastern Koshi, southern Madhesh, central Bagmati and western Sudurpashchim provinces.
Some parts of western Karnali Province are also expected to receive heavy rainfall, while areas of Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could experience heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds, the NTB said, citing the DHM.
“Visitors travelling to mountainous and high-altitude areas near river basins are encouraged to take extra precautions, as weather conditions can change rapidly and snowfall may occur at higher elevations,” the tourism board said.
Several visitors in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river basins were among those affected by the devastating floods on August 26.
The NTB advised tourists to check the latest weather forecasts and official advisories before beginning their journeys and to remain informed about road, flight and trekking route conditions.
It also urged visitors to avoid areas affected by severe weather or identified as high risk.
“Exercise particular caution near rivers, streams, steep slopes and areas prone to landslides,” the advisory said.
The tourism board further advised visitors to avoid trekking, mountaineering and other outdoor activities during unsafe weather conditions.
“Follow safety instructions issued by local authorities, security agencies, tourism professionals and other relevant officials and pre-emptively stay or move to safe places based on weather conditions and the advice of tour operators,” it said.
The latest warning comes as Nepal prepares for another period of potentially severe weather, with authorities urging tourists and residents to remain alert in vulnerable areas.
