The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has reported that the monsoon’s low-pressure line is currently situated close to its average position for this time of year. This position has allowed monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal to gain strength, leading to increased moisture inflow across the country. According to the department, these intensified monsoon winds are the primary cause of the widespread rainfall being experienced in several provinces.
Widespread Rainfall Observed on Friday Morning
On Friday morning, most parts of the country experienced weather conditions ranging from partly cloudy to generally cloudy. The rainfall was recorded in almost all regions, with particularly heavy showers in some parts of Koshi and Lumbini provinces. The department noted that this pattern aligns with typical mid-monsoon weather conditions, where localized heavy rainfall events often occur alongside moderate rainfall across broader areas.
Afternoon Forecast: Cloudy Skies Nationwide
The meteorologists predict that skies will remain generally cloudy throughout Friday afternoon. Govinda Jha, a senior meteorologist at the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, said that light to moderate rain is likely over most of the hilly areas in all seven provinces. “We expect significant rainfall in many districts, particularly in the eastern and far-western hilly regions,” Jha explained. He further added that the combination of the monsoon winds and high humidity levels is fueling the rain-producing clouds.
Heavy Rain Expected in Select Provinces
While the moderate rainfall is expected in most areas, meteorologists have issued warnings for heavy rainfall in some locations. Specifically, certain parts of the Koshi, Gandaki, and Sudurpaschim provinces may experience intense downpours during the day. These conditions could result in localized flooding, landslides, and disruptions to transportation in the affected areas. The department has urged residents, especially those living in landslide-prone regions, to remain alert.
Nighttime Conditions: Continued Cloud Cover
According to the weather forecast, skies across the country will remain partly to generally cloudy on Friday night as well. The rainfall is likely to persist, with heavy showers expected at one or two places in Koshi and Sudurpaschim provinces during the night. Meteorologist Jha emphasized that while these heavy rain events will be isolated, they could still pose risks in vulnerable areas.
Possible Improvement in Weather on Saturday
Looking ahead, meteorologists anticipate a slight improvement in the weather conditions by Saturday. “This is the peak monsoon period, so moderate rainfall is quite normal. Moisture-laden winds continue to enter Nepal from the Bay of Bengal, sustaining the current weather pattern. However, the chances of heavy rainfall appear lower for tomorrow,” Jha stated. The department expects that while cloud cover will persist, rainfall intensity may reduce slightly over the weekend.
Seasonal Context: Peak Monsoon Patterns
This period marks the height of Nepal’s monsoon season, which typically lasts from mid-June to late September. The average position of the monsoon trough during this time often results in frequent and widespread showers across the country. Moisture from the Bay of Bengal and local convection processes combine to create conditions conducive to both sustained light rain and occasional heavy downpours. The seasonal rains are vital for agriculture but also bring the risk of natural disasters, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions.
Public Advisory and Preparedness Measures
Given the forecast, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has urged the public to take necessary precautions. Communities in flood- and landslide-prone areas should monitor local updates closely and prepare for possible emergency situations. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, as wet roads and reduced visibility can lead to accidents. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the rainfall for crop cultivation but also to safeguard vulnerable plants against excessive waterlogging.
