The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued a notice warning of potential heavy rainfall in some areas on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. In response, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has deployed personnel and resources based on risk assessments, particularly to prevent disasters. This year, the monsoon entered Nepal on June 19, six days later than usual. Due to insufficient rainfall from the delayed monsoon system, the department has now issued a “heavy rainfall” warning.
Following an extended period of intense heat, the threat of floods and landslides has increased with the onset of heavy rainfall. The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has urged the general public to remain vigilant and is fully prepared to respond to disasters. Vibhuti Pokharel, the department’s spokesperson, stated, “We have issued this notice because very heavy rainfall is expected in certain areas.” She explained that rainfall exceeding 100 millimeters within 24 hours is classified as “very heavy rainfall.”
According to the department’s advisory, monsoon activity will intensify on Ashad 16 and 17. In the hilly and Terai regions of Madhesh Province, as well as in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpaschim provinces, there is a possibility of “heavy rainfall” accompanied by thunder and lightning, with “very heavy rainfall” expected in one or two locations. Pokharel added, “We advise caution as flash floods could occur unexpectedly in some places.”
Interior Minister Sudhan Gurung has repeatedly shown concern regarding disaster response efforts. Drawing upon his experience of over 11 years in disaster relief and rescue operations, he stated that the government is more alert this time. Pradeep Kumar Koirala, Chief Executive and Secretary of the authority, noted, “Alerts have been issued across all areas.”
The authority has updated the stockpile of essential materials for disaster management and plans to continue these preparations throughout Monday. Additionally, this year’s rice transplantation conditions are worrisome, as the Department of Agriculture reports a decline in the area of land under rice cultivation.
