Image by Dietmar Temps
It is being reported that a freak snowstorm in the Himalayas has killed at least 21 hikers in central Nepal. More than 100 hikers are still missing on the far side of the Annapurna Circuit Pass.
The blizzard, believed to have been triggered by Cyclone Hudhud in neighboring India, hit a resting place 4,500m (14,800ft) above sea level, not far below the Annapurna Circuit’s highest point. The trekkers who were killed or remain missing were on their way down. Scores of trekkers still remain out of contact. Of the dead are 10 foreigners including three Israelis and two Poles.
Meanwhile five more climbers are presumed dead after an avalanche in nearby Manang district. Officials say four were from Canada and one from India. Three Nepalese farmers have also been killed in a separate avalanche in the same area.
It has not been good a year for Nepal’s trekking and mountaineering industry. An avalanche on Mount Everest in April killed 16 Sherpas.
Map of the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is located in central Nepal.
Image from the Annapurna Circuit