As monsoon rainfall intensifies across various parts of Nepal, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued an urgent advisory urging the public to exercise caution. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has issued an urgent public alert requesting people across several parts of the country to adopt necessary precautions in light of the continuously rising water levels in rivers triggered by ongoing rainfall. The department has stated that many river systems are approaching or crossing warning levels, posing a threat of localized flooding and landslides, especially in low-lying and riverside areas.
Rising Water Level in Hanumante River, Bhaktapur
According to the DHM, the water level at the Hanumante River in Bhaktapur, recorded at the Kaushaltar hydrological station, is currently hovering around the warning level. With the rain showing no signs of easing and the water level continuing to rise, the department has advised people living in riverside settlements and those planning to travel along the riverbanks to remain cautious, especially until the early morning hours. The Hanumante River is known for its tendency to overflow during continuous downpours, which can result in urban inundation and waterlogging in low-lying areas such as Duwakot, Balkot, and Kaushaltar itself.
Tulo Bheri River in Rukum West Shows Similar Trend
In Rukum West, a similar alert has been issued for the Tulo Bheri River. As per the data from the Rimna hydrological station, the river’s water level has risen close to the warning threshold and continues to increase. The department has particularly urged residents of flood-prone low-lying areas and those near the riverbanks to stay alert and avoid unnecessary movement or travel during the night. The Tulo Bheri River has a history of rapid swelling during monsoon periods, often resulting in damage to infrastructure and agriculture in downstream settlements if safety measures are not adequately implemented in time.
Danger of Floods and Landslides Along the Myagdi River
In Myagdi district, the situation appears even more critical. The DHM has reported that the water level at the Mangala Ghat hydrological station on the Myagdi River has already crossed the warning level, indicating a high risk of flooding in surrounding riverbank areas. Issuing a special midnight bulletin, the department has strongly urged people residing near the river, especially those living on unstable slopes and fragile hillsides, to exercise extreme caution.
The continuous rainfall in mountainous terrain heightens the risk of both riverine floods and landslides, which can prove fatal if early warnings are ignored. Vulnerable communities such as those in Beni, Babiyachaur, and surrounding hilly settlements are requested to remain on alert and be ready for potential evacuation if conditions worsen.
Department Emphasizes Community Awareness and Preparedness
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has stated that it is continuously monitoring the rain-fed river systems throughout the country using real-time data from various hydrological stations. With further precipitation expected due to monsoon activity, there remains a substantial risk of flash floods, river overflows, and landslides in several hilly and Terai districts. In this regard, the DHM has urged all local authorities to disseminate information promptly at the community level and activate emergency response mechanisms.
Moreover, residents are advised to remain updated through radio, television, and official online platforms of the department and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The public is encouraged to avoid riverbanks, refrain from crossing swollen rivers, and stay away from landslide-prone zones during periods of intense or prolonged rainfall.
History of Monsoon-Triggered Disasters Adds to Concern
Nepal’s geography and climate make it especially vulnerable to monsoon-triggered natural disasters. Past experiences have shown that negligence in responding to early warnings can result in significant loss of life and property. The 2020 and 2021 monsoons, for instance, saw several major incidents of landslides and flash floods that displaced hundreds of families across the hills and Terai. This year, while government agencies have improved surveillance and warning systems, the effectiveness still depends on public awareness and cooperation.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has reiterated its appeal to all citizens, especially those living near rivers, along hillsides, and in areas with a history of flooding or landslides, to remain vigilant and not take the current situation lightly.
It emphasizes that preparedness and timely caution are the best tools to avoid disasters. The department will continue to update the public as the situation evolves and stands ready to coordinate with local governments and emergency services to mitigate potential risks. As Nepal continues to experience the effects of an active monsoon, citizens are reminded that a few hours of vigilance can make a life-saving difference.
