Kathmandu. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has urged tourists to take precaution as there may be heavy rain and snowfall due to the impact of Cyclone Arnab.

The Meteorological Forecasting Division of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology said the weather will be affected in different parts of the country from the night of October 29 due to the influence of cyclone ‘Arnab’ and heavy rain, lightning and intense wind is likely on October 30 and 31.

Therefore, the Nepal Tourism Board has urged domestic and foreign tourists and travelers to take precautions. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, there is a possibility of moderate to heavy rainfall in Koshi, Bagmati, Madhes, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces. The board has urged the people to take special precaution while traveling and trekking as there is a risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorm and avalanche in the high hilly and mountainous areas.

There is a risk of landslides, flash floods and rising water levels in the rivers due to the rains, as well as affecting the hilly roads and the transport routes along the rivers. The board has urged to take official information about the weather forecast and the condition of the roads before embarking on the journey as it may also cause disruption in road and air transport.

The NTB has also advised people not to travel except essential ones during heavy rainfall, to postpone trekking and excursions in high hilly and mountainous areas until the weather becomes favorable and to stay in safe places.

The board has also requested people to stay away from river banks, slopes and other risky places at risk of landslides and follow the instructions of the local administration and security agencies. For emergency assistance and information, one can contact 1155, Disaster Assistance 1234, Nepal Police 100, Armed Police Force 1114 and Tourist Police 1144.

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), keeping in mind the safety and welfare of tourists, has urged all passengers to follow the official instructions, make travel plans by assessing the weather conditions and avoid risky travel in adverse weather.