Heavy Monsoon Rain Puts Nepal on Alert

Monsoon rain has spread across much of Nepal, with the weather department warning that several provinces could receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Communities near rivers, unstable slopes and areas with a history of landslides have been asked to remain particularly alert as the active system is expected to continue for the next three days.

The immediate concern is not rainfall alone. Sudden downpours over fragile terrain can quickly turn small rivers and streams dangerous, while prolonged rain may weaken slopes, block roads and isolate settlements with little warning.

The Meteorological Forecasting Division said the monsoon trough in the west has shifted north of its average position and is now close to Nepal’s Tarai. In the east, the trough remains near its normal position. The system has increased cloud cover and brought rain to different parts of the country.

Light to moderate rain is currently falling at several places in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Karnali provinces. One or two places in Sudurpaschim Province are also receiving rain.

Heavy rain possible through the day

Skies are expected to remain mostly cloudy across the country during the day.

Many places in the Himalayan areas of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces may receive moderate rain with thunder and lightning. Similar conditions are possible at some places in the Himalayan areas of Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim.

Rain is also likely across many parts of the hills and Tarai. Heavy rainfall may occur at some locations in the hill and Tarai districts of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces.

One or two places in Karnali and Sudurpaschim could also receive heavy rain.

Wider rainfall expected overnight

The rainfall area may expand further at night, when light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is expected at most places in the hills and Tarai.

Heavy rain is possible at some locations in the hill regions, as well as in the Tarai areas of Koshi, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces.

One or two places in the Tarai districts of Madhes, Bagmati and Gandaki may also receive heavy rainfall.

The department has issued a stronger warning for parts of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim. Some hill and Tarai locations in these provinces could receive very heavy to extremely heavy rain.

Meteorologist Sanjeev Adhikari said the monsoon system remains favourable for sustained rainfall and that significant rain is likely to continue for the next three days.

Flood, landslide and travel risks rising

Continuous rain, or intense rainfall within a short period, could cause water levels in small rivers and streams to rise suddenly.

The department has warned of debris flows, floods, landslides and soil erosion in areas receiving heavy rain. Settlements on steep or weak ground, communities along rivers and streams, and places that have experienced landslides in the past face greater risk.

Roads may be obstructed, flights could be affected and daily travel may become difficult. Travellers have been advised to check the latest weather and road conditions before setting out.

Extra caution has also been urged during agricultural work, tourism activities, mountaineering and other outdoor movement.

During thunderstorms, people should stay away from open ground, tall trees, electricity poles and waterlogged areas.

Residents in disaster-prone locations have been asked to follow notices issued by local administrations and relevant agencies, and to regularly check the latest weather information as the monsoon system develops.