Nepal braces for rain and snowfall as Meteorological Division issues caution

KATHMANDU: A shift in weather patterns is on the horizon for various regions across Nepal, with the likelihood of rain and snowfall anticipated for today.

The Meteorological Forecasting Division has issued a special bulletin providing insights into precipitation and snowfall in different areas.

The bulletin underscores the importance of vigilance due to the expected intensification of weather conditions.

Meteorologist Govinda Jha from the Meteorological Forecasting Division reports that on Sunday, snowfall is predicted in the Himalayan and high mountainous regions spanning Sudurpashchim, Karnali, Gandaki, Bagmati, and Koshi provinces.

The hilly terrains of Sudurpashchim, Karnali, Lumbini, Gandaki, Bagmati, and Koshi provinces are likely to witness rainfall. However, minimal impact is expected in the Terai and eastern Tarai districts.

"When examining the nature of the current weather system, conditions similar to the rainfall and snowfall experienced last Thursday are anticipated, but with a more pronounced impact in the Terai and Madhes regions," notes the meteorological division.

Currently, Nepal is under the influence of a western disturbance, and the precipitation system situated within the western region entered on Saturday. It is projected to expand and intensify, resulting in increased rainfall and snowfall.

This weather effect is expected to persist until Monday, and from Monday evening onward, gradual improvement in weather conditions is anticipated, according to information provided by meteorologists.

Potential Impact on Daily Life

The weather system bringing about rainfall and snowfall is causing a noticeable drop in temperatures.

The cold conditions may have implications for health, mountain climbing, aviation, and day-to-day activities. Hence, the Meteorological Forecasting Division urges the public to exercise caution.

Temperature decreases are expected to commence from Saturday. Minimum temperatures are forecasted to reach around minus six degrees Celsius in Jumla, minus five in Jomsom, and minus two in Jiri. On Saturday evening, Kathmandu recorded a minimum temperature of 3.3 degrees Celsius.

Janakpur remains one of the warmer places, with a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius.

Previously, on January 18, Sudurpashchim, Karnali, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Bagmati provinces experienced rainfall and snowfall.

On that day, the Meteorological Forecasting Division had issued a warning, anticipating precipitation on Saturday and Sunday, urging the public to remain vigilant.