Badimalika, Nepal— One person died after severe weather and heavy snowfall struck the Badimalika region on November 1, 2026, blocking trails and leaving remote hill villages cut off from help.
The snowfall started late Friday and intensified overnight. Badimalika, a high-altitude area spanning Bajura and surrounding districts, is a pilgrimage and trekking route. Temperatures dropped below minus 8 degrees. Wind gusts buried paths under fresh snow.
Local officials said the victim was a 45-year-old herder found near a cattle shed. He had been caught outside while moving livestock. Two other herders were found alive but with frostbite. They were carried down to a health post.
District administration closed the Badimalika temple route. Pilgrims were told to stay in lower villages. Several groups of trekkers reported being stranded near the pass. Mobile signal is weak. Rescue teams moved on foot with ropes.
"We have snow up to chest height in some sections. Porters cannot move. Our teams are trying to reach three villages that have no contact," a district disaster official said from Martadi. He said food and blankets are being staged.
Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for western hills. Officials said a western disturbance combined with moist air brought the heavy fall. More snow is forecast above 3,000 meters.
Livestock losses are mounting. Families in the area depend on yaks and sheep. Sheds collapsed under snow weight. Local schools shut down for the day. Health workers said they expect more cold-related cases.
The Nepal Army and Armed Police Force were placed on standby. Helicopters cannot fly in low visibility. Ground rescue is the only option. Villagers are burning pine wood to stay warm as fuel runs low.
The victim's body was brought down Saturday afternoon. Officials said post-mortem will be conducted at the district hospital. The route will remain closed until weather clears.
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