Key Takeaways:

• Tourists and trekkers have been urged to avoid high-altitude trekking from October 29 to 31
• Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds and possible snowfall could affect Gandaki Province
• Heavy snowfall and avalanches are possible in high-hill and Himalayan areas
• Authorities have advised suspending travel and vehicle movement towards the border point until conditions improve

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 28 Mustang authorities have urged tourists and trekkers to avoid high-altitude travel from October 29 to 31 as forecasts of adverse weather raise the risk of heavy snowfall, avalanches, landslides and transport disruptions. The District Administration Office in Mustang and Lomanthang Rural Municipality have issued separate notices warning of possible heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across much of Gandaki Province. Heavy snowfall and avalanches are also possible in high-hill and Himalayan areas, prompting concerns over the safety of trekkers and other travellers. Mustang Chief District Officer Parshuram Pokharel said precautions were necessary as falling temperatures, landslides and adverse weather could disrupt road and air transport. Lomanthang Rural Municipality has separately warned of increased risks around the Korala border point and surrounding areas. Rural municipality chairperson Tasi Nharbu Gurung urged transport operators, drivers, traders and tourists not to travel towards the border point because snowfall could make roads slippery, increase the risk of vehicle accidents and block road access. The local government has also advised suspending travel and vehicular movement towards Korala until weather conditions improve. Travellers planning to visit Mustang's high-altitude areas have been urged to take the warnings seriously and avoid journeys that could expose them to hazardous weather and transport conditions.