JAPANTIMES.co.jp

Five Japanese tourists were among numerous people missing in avalanches and snowstorms in the Himalayan Annapurna Region in Nepal, it was learned Thursday.
 
The Japanese Embassy in Nepal was trying to confirm whether they are safe.
 
According to officials there, the embassy lost contact with five of 15 Japanese tourists who were given permission over the last several days to enter Annapurna.
 
Poor communications in the area was making it difficult to confirm their safety, the officials said.
 
Nearly 30 trekkers died after avalanches and unseasonable snowstorms caused by a cyclone hit Annapurna over the last few days. The mountain is a popular destination for foreign tourists.
 
Nepal authorities have rescued 117 stranded tourists but have yet to make contact with dozens of people.