Delayed Monsoon Retreat in Nepal: Heavy Rainfall Predicted

Kathmandu, September 30: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has reported that this year's monsoon in Nepal is expected to retreat a few days later than usual.

While the average date for the monsoon's departure is October 2nd, this year's monsoon is predicted to linger a bit longer. The department attributes this delay to the low-pressure system developing in the north-western part of the Bay of Bengal.

Meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari stated that even though the expected monsoon retreat date is October 2nd, the development of the low-pressure system means that there's a likelihood of changing weather and rainfall in the coming days. "The monsoon retreat process has started from the western part of India. However, the current low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal is strengthening and moving northwest, which is causing the monsoon to delay its departure from Nepal," he explained.

According to Adhikari, due to the development of the low-pressure system in the eastern region, there's a possibility of heavy rainfall in certain parts of the country in the next two to four days. He mentioned, "The low-pressure system developed in the east might not affect the western and far-western parts of the country. However, there's a high chance of significant rainfall in the eastern and central regions."

Given that the Dashain festival is approaching, farmers are in the phase of harvesting crops. The prolonged monsoon impact, especially in the agriculture and transportation sectors, has prompted the department to urge relevant authorities to stay alert.

The monsoon typically enters Nepal around June 13th, starting from the eastern region and gradually spreading throughout the country. Even though the expected retreat date is October 2nd or 15th Asoj, this year's monsoon is anticipated to depart a bit later. This year, the monsoon entered Nepal a day later than usual, on June 14th.

Caution Advised

The department has advised the public to exercise caution over the next three to four days, as many parts of the country are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall, with some areas even witnessing heavy downpours. The risk of landslides in hilly areas, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and potential disruptions in daily life and transportation are highlighted. The department has also urged farmers and all stakeholders to be prepared and cautious during this period.

Rainfall Forecast

Currently, there's a possibility of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in some parts of the Koshi, Madhes, and Bagmati provinces, with a few other provinces experiencing similar conditions during the night.