The Khumbu region witnessed heavy snowfall in the last week of February, following an unusually dry winter season that lasted from December to mid-February. Snowfall began on Friday night in the upper Himalayan areas, while the lower regions of the district experienced rainfall.

Heavy snowfall has been reported above Namche Bazaar, which lies at an altitude of 3,450 metres above sea level. According to Chhimi Kalden Sherpa, a local resident, the area is blanketed in snow, with approximately one foot of snow accumulating in Namche Bazaar. Sherpa remarked, “This is the heaviest snowfall of the year, and the entire upper region is covered in white.”

The unexpected snowfall has brought joy to the locals, but it has also increased cold temperatures significantly. In response, Nepal Police has begun Himalayan patrols to ensure public safety and offer advice on coping with the cold. Deputy Superintendent of of Police Dwarika Prasad Ghimire informed that a seven-member team led by the Assistant Sub-Inspector from the Namche Area Police Office began patrolling early on Saturday morning.

“Our team is visiting mountain settlements to assess the problems caused by the cold and to provide guidance on staying safe,” said Ghimire.

The snowfall has also transformed the lower hills of the district. Snow has fallen on Dudhkund, Pikey Danda, Ratnange, and Pattale hills, covering the landscape in a white blanket.

Meanwhile, rainfall in the southern region has brought relief and optimism to local farmers.