By Belina Thapa, Lamjung, Jan. 5: The snowfall that started in the upper area of Manang from Monday evening has led to a dip in temperature.

According to Chiring Neshyang Gurung of Pisang in Ngisyang Rural Municipality-1, the snowfall began from Monday night and continued till Tuesday evening. "This is the second time that Manang has witnessed snowfall this year. Snow measuring two to three inches have accumulated in Humde, Bhraka and Khangsar areas in the district."

Kancha Ghale, Chairman of Manang Nginsyang Rural Municipality said that the upper area of the district had witnessed heavy snowfall. "This is the second heavy snowfall in Manang. The first one was witnessed on November 16."

"The snowfall has sent the temperature down up to -13 degree Celsius," added Chairman Ghale. He informed that the locals stayed inside by lighting firewood to stay warm during the snowfall.

According to Lalita Gurung, health worker at Area Conservation Office at Annapurna Conservation Area Project, the snowfall had hit Manang from Monday and all the mountains and hills around upper Manang have been covered with snow.

The locals said that their lives had been affected by the snowfall. "The upper region of the district has been affected by the snow. Snowfall in heavy amount occurred in Humde, Manang, Ngawal, Ghyaru and so forth of Manang Ngisyang Rural Municipality and Narpabhumi Rural Municipality," said Krishna Lamichhane, Chief District Officer of Manang.

"The snowfall has not reached Chame yet. The locals have informed that 1.5 inches of snow had accumulated in the upper region," said CDO Lamichhane.

According to the locals, Thorang La Pass, Base Camp, Yakkharcha and Tilicho area of the upper Manang had witnessed heavy snowfall.

Prior to his, mild snowfall had occurred up to 3,000 meters during November.

CDO Lamichhane said that in comparison to previous years, the snowfall had started soon this year.

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