Kathmandu, Nepal: Rainfall is expected to increase across Nepal over the next few days as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal moves towards the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha in India.
The India Meteorological Department said on Wednesday evening that the system was located about 90 kilometres east-northeast of Visakhapatnam and was moving west-northwestward. It was expected to cross the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts later on Wednesday night.
Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has warned that the system could bring heavy rainfall to several parts of the country, particularly from Friday to Sunday. The department has also advised people to take precautions against possible floods, landslides and other weather-related problems.
The system is developing over the Bay of Bengal while Nepal is already under the influence of the monsoon. Continued rainfall could therefore add to the water already present in the soil and rivers.
Heavy rain possible in several provinces
The Meteorological Forecasting Division has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces on Thursday night and Friday.
The possibility of extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places in Gandaki and Lumbini has also been highlighted in the forecast. Some parts of Karnali could receive heavy rain as well.
The department has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in some areas.
The forecast does not mean that all areas will receive the same amount of rain. Rainfall could be concentrated in particular districts and locations, so local conditions will be important in assessing the actual risk.
Main concern is accumulated rainfall
The risk from the current system is not limited to the intensity of rain at any one time.
Much of Nepal has already received monsoon rainfall. Additional rain can raise water levels in rivers and streams and increase the likelihood of landslides in areas where the ground is already wet.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has warned of possible soil erosion, floods, landslides, debris flows and inundation in the Terai. Rising water levels in both major and smaller rivers and streams could also affect settlements and infrastructure.
Roads in hilly areas could be particularly vulnerable. Landslides can block highways and local roads, while prolonged rain can make it difficult for authorities to clear damaged sections and maintain transportation.
Travel warnings issued
The Meteorological Forecasting Division has advised people to avoid long-distance road travel from September 25 to 27 because of the possibility of persistent rainfall and associated risks. It has also advised against trekking in the Himalayan region during the period because of the possibility of heavy rain and snowfall.
People already on trekking routes have been advised to move to safer, lower areas.
The department has also asked people to follow official weather bulletins and take local warnings seriously. The government’s weather service operates the toll-free number 1155, with the weather information service available through the designated option.
Kathmandu Valley could also see heavy rain
Kathmandu Valley is also expected to receive rainfall. While the amount of rain will vary from place to place, heavy rain over a short period could put pressure on drainage systems and cause water to accumulate on roads and in low-lying areas.
For the valley, the timing and intensity of rainfall may be more important than the total rainfall over several days. Localised heavy rain can cause problems even when rainfall across the wider region is moderate.
Authorities urged to prepare
The weather department has asked government agencies and the public to remain alert as rainfall is expected to increase from Friday.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah also urged government agencies and the public on Wednesday to pay attention to weather warnings and maintain coordination. Particular caution has been advised in parts of Gandaki and Lumbini, as well as selected areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.
For local authorities, the immediate priorities are likely to be monitoring rivers and streams, identifying vulnerable settlements, keeping roads and rescue equipment ready, and ensuring that weather warnings reach communities in time.
No reason for panic, but caution is needed
Meteorologists have said there is no need for panic, but people should not ignore the warnings. The exact amount and location of rainfall will become clearer as the system moves inland and weather conditions develop.
The important period for Nepal is expected to be from September 25 to 27, when rainfall could become widespread and heavy in parts of the country.
People living near rivers and streams, on steep slopes and in areas with a history of landslides should keep themselves informed about local warnings. Those planning long-distance travel should check the latest weather and road conditions before leaving.
The current forecast does not indicate that every part of Nepal will face severe weather. But with the monsoon still active, additional rainfall could increase existing risks in vulnerable areas. The safest approach is therefore to follow official forecasts and local warnings rather than relying on unverified information circulating on social media.
