The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has issued a travel advisory urging visitors and travellers across Nepal to remain alert as Cyclone Arnab is expected to influence weather conditions across the country from the night of October 29. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), several parts of Nepal are likely to experience adverse weather conditions, including moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds, particularly on October 30 and 31.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast Across Five Provinces
The advisory states that Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall during the period. Strong winds and thunderstorms are also possible in various areas, potentially affecting travel conditions and outdoor activities. The NTB has therefore urged travellers to remain updated on weather conditions and make travel decisions based on official forecasts and local advisories.
Snowfall and Avalanche Risks in Himalayan Areas
The adverse weather could also affect Nepal’s high-altitude and Himalayan regions. Heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches are possible in mountainous areas, increasing risks for trekkers, mountaineers and other visitors travelling in high-altitude destinations.
Travellers already in high-hill and Himalayan areas have been advised to remain in safe locations and avoid unnecessary movement during periods of severe weather. The NTB has particularly urged travellers to postpone trips to high-hill and Himalayan areas if adverse weather conditions intensify.
Risk of Landslides and Flash Floods
The expected rainfall may increase the possibility of landslides, flash floods and river flooding in vulnerable areas. Such conditions could disrupt road transportation, particularly along mountain roads, landslide-prone sections and river corridors. Travellers are advised to check road conditions before beginning their journeys and avoid routes that have been identified as vulnerable to flooding or landslides. The weather could also affect air transportation, particularly in areas experiencing heavy rainfall, strong winds or poor visibility.
NTB Urges Travellers to Exercise Caution
The Tourism Board has advised travellers to avoid non-essential travel during periods of heavy rainfall and to prioritize personal safety over travel plans. Travellers are also encouraged to regularly check official weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out. They have been advised to avoid riverbanks, landslide-prone slopes and other areas considered vulnerable to weather-related hazards. The NTB has further urged visitors to follow instructions and safety guidance issued by local authorities, security agencies and emergency response organizations.
Emergency Contacts for Travellers
The Tourism Board has provided the following emergency contact numbers for visitors and travellers seeking assistance or updates during the period of adverse weather:
- Weather Information: 1155
- Disaster Assistance: 1234
- Nepal Police: 100
- Armed Police Force: 1114
- Tourist Police: 1144
Visitors Urged to Stay Informed
The NTB has reiterated that the safety and well-being of visitors remain a priority and encouraged travellers to plan responsibly in view of the forecast weather conditions. While adverse weather may affect transportation and travel in some areas, travellers have been urged to stay informed through official sources, follow local safety instructions and prioritize safety when making travel decisions. The advisory comes as Nepal enters a period of potentially disruptive weather, with authorities closely monitoring rainfall, snowfall and other weather-related risks across the country.
