Summary
Reviewed Content.
- Many parts of the country are experiencing rising temperatures and extreme heat, with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology forecasting hot winds (‘Lu’) in the Terai districts.
- In Dipayal, Sudurpashchim Province, temperatures reached 40 degrees Celsius, prompting the National Disaster Risk Reduction Authority to formulate procedures to mitigate the effects of heatwaves.
- According to public health expert Dr. Sameer Adhikari, heatwaves can cause rapid heart rate, reduced breathing and blood pressure, and other serious health issues.
April 20, Kathmandu – In recent days, most parts of the country have seen increasing temperatures leading to intense heat. Along with this, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has indicated a likelihood of hot winds, known locally as ‘Lu’, blowing in the Terai districts.
According to the data released by the department this afternoon, the temperature reached 41 degrees Celsius in Kapilvastu and 39 degrees Celsius in Banke. Daytime heat has increased in the Terai areas of Madhesh Province, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpashchim Provinces, as well as in valleys and lowlands. The department reported a possibility of hot winds blowing in the western Terai of Sudurpashchim and Lumbini Provinces. They have urged the public to stay updated with the latest information and to take necessary precautions.
Meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari from the department shared that extreme heat will persist especially in the Terai districts until Wednesday. He stated, “From today through Wednesday, particularly in Terai, valleys, and lowlands, hot wind waves are likely. However, in Koshi Province, due to cloud cover, the immediate risk of ‘Lu’ is low.” He emphasized that the risk of hot winds is higher in western Lumbini Province, Dhangadhi, other Terai districts of Sudurpashchim, and Nepalgunj.
The temperature in Dipayal, Sudurpashchim Province, reached about 40 degrees Celsius this afternoon, which meteorologists say is abnormal. Rajendra Sharma, Senior Hydrologist at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, warned that the frequency of ‘Lu’ events is increasing with climate change, highlighting the need for timely preparedness and awareness.
“We have developed guidelines to mitigate the impact of hot winds, which have been shared with relevant inter-agency bodies, and discussions for effective implementation are ongoing,” he said.
“It is essential to maintain cool environments, ensure access to clean drinking water, and provide special care for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and patients,” Sharma added. “Preemptive measures should be enforced at hospitals, schools, and public places.”
Health Impacts of Heatwaves
Public health specialist Dr. Sameer Adhikari explained that exposure to ‘Lu’ can cause rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, severe headaches, burning eyes, dizziness, and even fainting. “Heatwaves can also cause long-term effects, affecting the brain and circulatory system,” he said. “Children and elderly people are particularly vulnerable. It is important to drink sufficient water, stay in shade, and avoid alcohol and smoking.”
Similarly, the Ministry of Health and Population has warned that symptoms such as body temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit, dry, red, and hot skin may occur during heatwaves. Pediatric specialist Dr. Ramhari Chapagain has also recommended heightened vigilance as children are especially susceptible to the effects of hot winds.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed that heatwaves and related health risks in Nepal are increasing due to climate change. Rapid urbanization and air pollution also contribute to rising temperatures and negatively impact public health.
Analysis of data from 33 meteorological stations across Nepal from 1987 to 2016 indicates an increase in hot days, especially in southern regions and during pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, with changes in rainfall patterns. WHO highlights the need for increased public awareness, health protection, and adaptive strategies at local levels to cope with rising temperatures.
Agricultural Risks and Production Decline
Excessive heat and hot winds also adversely affect agriculture and animal husbandry. Agricultural expert Dilliram Sharma explained that extreme heat causes crops to wither, flowers to fall prematurely, and fruits to develop poorly, risking economic loss for farmers.
“If crops are exposed to heat during flowering or fruiting stages, growth halts and production declines. In some areas, maize has formed grains but these do not mature properly, leading to lower yields,” he said.
He suggested that farming under plastic tunnels (polyhouses) can reduce the risk. Experts urge the formulation of long-term plans to mitigate climate change-related risks. Recommendations include improving irrigation, providing shade and adequate water supply, safeguarding animal health, and adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices.
How to Protect Yourself from Heatwaves
The authority advises avoiding going outdoors during peak daytime heat, drinking plenty of water and fruit juices, and consuming electrolyte solutions if excessive sweating occurs. If going outside is necessary, wearing a hat or using an umbrella, bathing with cool water, and working in fields early in the morning or late in the evening are recommended.
The Ministry of Health and Population requests abstaining from alcohol, limiting caffeine intake (tea, coffee, soda), and avoiding sugary drinks during heatwaves.
What is ‘Lu’?
A ‘Lu’ refers to a heatwave or extremely hot wind, which typically occurs from mid-March to mid-September depending on temperature. The federal and provincial disaster management laws of Nepal refer to it as a ‘heatwave.’ According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, a ‘hot day’ is when the temperature exceeds the 90th percentile of the last 30 years of data. A heatwave is classified as mild if it lasts three or more consecutive hot days, moderate if prolonged, and severe in the case of extreme heat waves.
