Heavy Snowfall in Khumbu Region

Heavy snowfall has been occurring continuously since Sunday in the high Himalayan region of Khumbu, affecting both tourists and locals.

According to Karma Sherpa, Senior Vice President of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), snowfall has disrupted trekking routes, particularly in the Gokyo region, leaving tourists stranded. He stated, “The trails are covered in snow, and some tourists are facing difficulties, but the exact number is yet to be confirmed.”
Local resident Sangye Sherpa mentioned that the unseasonal snowfall has significantly impacted daily life. Meanwhile, an American tourist on a trekking expedition in the Everest region has gone missing.

Various items, including traditional woolen clothing and garlands, are displayed for sale along the roadside in Kyangju village, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, Solukhumbu. Tourists traveling to and from the Everest Base Camp often purchase these essential supplies.Lama Kaji Sherpa, Chairperson of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), reported that the missing individual is 63-year-old American national Wai Ma. “He entered the Everest National Park checkpoint last Wednesday but has not been in contact since,” he said, adding that the ongoing snowfall has complicated search efforts.

The snowfall has also disrupted Everest expeditions, with most climbers remaining at base camp. Authorities and relevant agencies are prioritizing the safety of affected tourists and locals, coordinating rescue and management efforts. (RSS/Photos RSS)