Rain Likely in Kathmandu and Eastern Regions Today; Heatwave Persists in Western Nepal

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, an intense heatwave is expected to affect the Terai plains of Sudurpashchim and Lumbini provinces today. Meanwhile, moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning is forecast in Kathmandu Valley and various locations across Bagmati, Gandaki, and Koshi provinces. As there is no immediate chance of rainfall in western Nepal, temperatures are expected to rise further, prompting meteorologists to advise caution. (11 Jestha, Kathmandu)

Today, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology reports hot days and heatwaves in the districts of Lumbini and Sudurpashchim. Specifically, the afternoon is expected to bring hot conditions in the hilly areas of these provinces, while the Terai region will experience a heatwave. In Dipayal, Dhangadhi, and Nepalgunj, the heatwave is projected to intensify. The maximum temperature in Dipayal is estimated to range between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius. Similarly, maximum temperatures in Dhangadhi and Nepalgunj are expected to reach between 39 and 41 degrees Celsius.

The weather forecast issued this morning indicates hot weather in Birendranagar of Surkhet, Ghorahi of Dang, and Bhairahawa of Rupandehi. Bhairahawa’s maximum temperature is estimated between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius, Birendranagar between 37 and 39 degrees, and Ghorahi between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius. The forecasting department had previously issued warnings for hot days and heatwaves in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim districts.

Compared to western Nepal, central and eastern districts are relatively cooler. Rainfall is likely today in Kathmandu Valley as well as in the Terai and hilly districts of Bagmati, Gandaki, and Koshi provinces. Moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected this afternoon in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Okhaldhunga, Dhankuta, Biratnagar, Jomsom, Dharan, Jiri, and Taplejung. These regions may continue to experience moderate rain into the night, as indicated by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.

Partly cloudy skies are forecast tonight in Bhairahawa, Rupandehi, although no rainfall is anticipated, the department notes. Meteorologist Binod Pokharel suggests an increase in both the areas and intensity of rainfall toward the eastern regions starting today, with the possibility of heavy rain in some localities. Another meteorologist, Ujjwal Upadhyay, concurs that rainfall is likely in the afternoon across Kathmandu and eastern regions. However, western Nepal is not expected to see rainfall anytime soon. Accordingly, the heatwave is anticipated to continue for a few more days, and meteorologists recommend people stay alert.