Key Takeaways:

• Four bodies recovered over two days
• 16 were reported missing in the earlier count, and the search continues
• An eight-member IFMGA guide team is leading operations
• Heavy snow and rain are believed to have triggered the avalanche

KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 28 Rescuers have recovered the bodies of four people from the Himlung Himal Base Camp avalanche site in Manang, the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA) said, as the search for others still missing continues. The association said the bodies of Chhebi Bhote and Pasang Bhote were recovered on Sunday, and those of Birendra Gurung and Ghan Shyam Rai on Monday. It said the team would continue searching for another three to four hours, weather permitting. Meanwhile, the bodies of the two deceased recovered on Sunday has been brought to Kathmandu. The avalanche struck the base camp on Sunday amid heavy snowfall and continuous rain. The NNMGA had earlier reported 16 people missing, including 14 kitchen staff and two climbing guides; the two guides were later confirmed dead. Initial reports had put the number missing at 10. An eight-member team of IFMGA-certified guides led by Mingma G. Sherpa is conducting the search. The team reached the base camp by helicopter and includes Pasang Kaji Sherpa, Ashish Gurung, Tsering Pemba Sherpa, Bikram Karki, Dandu Sherpa and Pasang Rinzi Sherpa. Bibhu Chand Thakur, president of Himalayan Holidays Nepal, earlier said the company had 22 members at the base camp but had reached only nine. The NNMGA said it would continue the operation 'until the mission is completed' and extended condolences to the families.