Currently, many regions across the country are experiencing light to moderate rainfall, according to the Meteorological Forecasting Division. The division reported that heavy rainfall is occurring in the eastern parts of Koshi, Bagmati, Lumbini, and Gandaki provinces. “The current weather system is centered around Chhattisgarh and adjacent areas in India, affecting the entire country,” meteorologist Rojan Lamichhane stated. “This impact may persist in the western region of Nepal until Sunday.” In the past 24 hours, Arjhale in Palpa recorded the highest rainfall at 187 millimeters, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. Meteorologist Binod Pokharel noted that the potential for heavy rain has shifted from some districts in Bagmati Province toward the Far-Western region. He also mentioned that there is a reduced likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall in Kathmandu from Friday afternoon onward.
Regarding river conditions, the Hydrology and Water Resources Research Center reported that the Hanumante River in Jagati, Bhaktapur, the Trishuli River in Dhunche, Nuwakot, and the Rosi River in Panauti, Kavrepalanchok, have reached alert water levels. Measurements taken on Friday morning indicated that the flow of most major rivers remains below alert levels, according to the Meteorological Division. It is estimated that the water levels of major rivers will experience normal fluctuations from Friday through Sunday. The Flood Forecasting Division indicated that the flow of several small rivers in Sunsari, Morang, Dhankuta, and surrounding districts will increase significantly on Friday, presenting a moderate risk of sudden flooding.
According to meteorologist Lamichhane of the Meteorological Division, gradual improvement in weather conditions is expected starting Monday. Shanti Mahat, spokesperson for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, stated that relevant stakeholders have been urged to remain vigilant as river water levels are expected to remain elevated until Sunday. “Previously, it was anticipated that the system would weaken by Sunday, but it now appears that the impact will persist until then, so we have advised continued caution through Sunday,” she said.
Several highways have been blocked due to landslides triggered by continuous rainfall over the past two days, the Disaster Response Coordination and Institutional Strengthening Section reported. According to Deputy Secretary Phanindra Paudel of the section, the Prithvi Highway, the primary route to Kathmandu, is also blocked due to landslides. Other affected highways include the BP Highway, Kantipath, and Kalupande Highway. Considering the potential hazards, some local administrations have issued separate notices restricting nighttime travel. Due to poor visibility caused by adverse weather, certain domestic flights have been canceled, service providers reported. Similarly, following directives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports to close schools as necessary, most schools observed holidays on Friday. Taking potential risks into account, the ministry has also instructed postponement of examinations scheduled up to Ashwin 11.
