KATHMANDU: The government has urged people planning to travel to Himalayan and high hill regions to obtain necessary information from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology before setting out on their journey.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has called on trekkers to stay informed about weather alerts and early warnings, as well as to be aware of the risks of altitude sickness.

The authority further advised travelers to make proper preparations before trekking, to stop and descend immediately for treatment if altitude sickness occurs, and to avoid traveling alone.

In the past two days — on October 25 and 26— four people have lost their lives due to altitude sickness in Manang and Kaski districts, while one Spanish national has been airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment.

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, the authority extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the speedy recovery of those undergoing treatment, according to a statement issued by spokesperson Shanti Mahat.

According to the latest forecast from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall and snowfall in some high hill and Himalayan areas of several provinces on October 27 and 28.

The department also stated that two low-pressure systems forming over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea could bring rain and snowfall across Nepal from Tuesday to Friday.

The department is currently conducting detailed analysis and will soon issue updated forecasts, the authority added.