The country’s weather today is expected to remain partly to generally cloudy, particularly in the hilly regions, including Koshi and Madhesh Provinces, according to the Meteorological Forecasting Division (MFD). In contrast, the rest of the nation will experience clear to partly cloudy skies.
The current weather conditions are influenced by the combined effects of westerly winds and local winds. Additionally, the moisture-laden air entering Nepal from the Bay of Bengal is further impacting the overall weather system, as noted by meteorologists.
Possibility of Light Rain and Thunderstorms
Today, there is a possibility of light rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in some parts of the hilly regions, including areas within Madhes Province. Moreover, isolated incidents of light rain and thunderstorms are also anticipated in a few other areas outside the hilly zones.
The hilly areas across Koshi, Madhes, and other provinces are particularly vulnerable to these light rain showers. These conditions could lead to slight disruptions in daily activities, especially in sectors like agriculture and local transport. Meteorologists advise the public and travelers to remain cautious, especially during the afternoon and evening hours when such weather events are more likely to occur.
Snowfall Expected in Mountainous Regions
In addition to rain, there is a forecast for light snowfall in some parts of the mountainous regions of the country. The areas most likely to experience snowfall include higher elevations within Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali Provinces. The MFD has urged trekkers and residents in these mountainous zones to take necessary precautions, as snowfall combined with light rains could make trails slippery and traveling conditions more challenging.
Given the ongoing trekking season in Nepal, especially with tourists visiting popular mountainous trails, this forecast serves as an important alert for safety and preparedness.
Evening and Nighttime Weather Forecast
Tonight, the weather pattern is expected to follow a similar trend. The hilly regions, particularly those in Koshi Province, will continue to see partly to generally cloudy skies. Meanwhile, the rest of the country will maintain clear to partly cloudy conditions through the evening and night hours.
There is a likelihood of light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunder and lightning, at several places in the hilly areas of Koshi, Madhes, and Gandaki Provinces. Furthermore, isolated rainfall is anticipated in the hilly belts of Bagmati and Karnali Provinces. This rain could range from light to moderate intensity, posing potential impacts such as localized waterlogging in low-lying areas and minor disruptions in road traffic due to slippery surfaces.
For the mountainous parts of Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali Provinces, there remains a chance of light rain and snowfall at one or two places during the night. These overnight weather changes could affect temperature patterns, with cooler nights expected in the highland regions.
Weather Dynamics: Influences Behind the Conditions
The Meteorological Forecasting Division attributes the current weather situation to multiple meteorological factors. Westerly winds, typically active during this time of year, are bringing moisture and cooler air into Nepal’s atmosphere. Simultaneously, the influence of local winds is enhancing the cloud formation, particularly over the hilly and mountainous regions.
Adding to these influences is the continuous inflow of moisture-rich air masses from the Bay of Bengal. This system has been responsible for increased humidity levels and intermittent rainfall across various parts of the country, despite the transition toward the pre-monsoon season.
Such weather patterns are common during this transitional period in Nepal, where pre-monsoon showers locally known as “Kal Baisakhi” in some regions bring sporadic rain, thunder, and sometimes hailstorms to the hilly and lowland areas.
Advisory for Public and Travelers
Given the forecast for rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall, the Meteorological Forecasting Division has urged the public, especially farmers, trekkers, and travelers, to stay alert. Those traveling through hilly and mountainous areas are advised to monitor updates from local weather stations and take necessary precautions to avoid weather-related hazards.
Farmers, in particular, should take measures to protect their crops from sudden showers or hailstorms, which could otherwise lead to significant agricultural losses during this critical growing season.
Similarly, trekkers and mountaineers have been encouraged to plan their routes carefully, carry necessary gear to tackle sudden changes in weather, and avoid high-altitude treks during nighttime when temperatures could dip significantly due to rain and snowfall.
Outlook for the Coming Days
Meteorologists indicate that similar weather patterns are likely to persist for the next few days as the transitional effects of the pre-monsoon period continue. However, no widespread heavy rainfall or severe weather events have been forecasted for now.
People are advised to remain updated with regular forecasts and prepare for occasional rain showers, thunder, and cooler temperatures, particularly during evenings and nights in the hills and mountains.
As Nepal progresses towards the full-fledged monsoon season, set to begin in June, such pre-monsoon activities are likely to intensify, bringing both beneficial rain for agriculture and occasional challenges for outdoor activities and travel.
