An avalanche in the Issyk-Kul district in northern Kyrgyzstan, has left five people dead, the Central Asian state's emergencies ministry said on Friday.

The tragedy occurred on Thursday evening near the mountainous resort of Lake Issyk Kul. Rescuers have managed to recover three of the bodies while the search is continuing for the others, a spokesman said.

Kyrgyz authorities recently issued an avalanche warning in a number of regions after the Kara-kuldzha - Alaiku highway was blocked by snow.

And the transport ministry said there is a risk of avalanches on key roads and is advising drivers to drive with caution.