Extreme Weather in Nepal Traps Israeli Hikers; Thailand Declares Emergency

Dozens of Israeli travelers are stranded in Nepal due to severe flooding and heavy rains, particularly in the Manaslu region of the Nepalese Himalayas. The extreme weather has blocked numerous roads, hindering access and rescue efforts. Israeli citizens are stuck in villages like Samagaon, situated at approximately 3,500 meters altitude.

The Israeli Embassy in Nepal and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are actively coordinating with local guides and tourism companies to locate Israelis who have not yet made contact. The embassy is facilitating the movement of stranded individuals to safer, higher ground as conditions permit, following advisories from local authorities to evacuate flood-prone areas.

Travel to trekking routes has been halted, and movement across large parts of Nepal is severely restricted. PassportCard insurance company reported that 40 of its policyholders are in affected areas, with groups in Annapurna, Manaslu, the Tsum Valley, and near Everest. Four of these policyholders require medical attention and will be evacuated when weather allows.

Separately, Thailand declared a state of emergency following extreme weather events, urging residents to stay indoors and advising those near canals to move belongings to upper floors.