Mercury dips, anticipated cold surge in the days ahead

“Extended Cold Spell Anticipated in Kathmandu Valley and Surrounding Regions, Weather Experts Urge Caution”

KATHMANDU: As the mercury continues to drop, a prolonged cold period is expected in the coming days, adding to the chilly conditions in the Kathmandu Valley and adjacent areas.

The meteorological forecast from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology indicates a persistent decline in temperatures, with a minimum of three degrees Celsius recorded on both Thursday and Friday in Kathmandu.

Saturday witnessed a slight increase, reaching 2.2 degrees Celsius. This marks the lowest minimum temperature so far this winter.

Comparatively, this year’s winter has been characterized by a slower descent in minimum temperatures, with a delay of around 20 days in reaching the minimum temperature recorded on Jan 7 last year, which was 2.5 degrees Celsius.

Analysis suggests that this winter’s prolonged chill could extend well into the month of Falgun.

The current weather pattern, coupled with the possibility of prolonged cold spells even during the post-winter transition, hints at an increased likelihood of continued cold conditions.

The meteorological experts highlight the absence of significant rainfall and the prevailing atmospheric conditions contributing to the elongated cold period.

The analysis also points to the impact of the continuous flow of cold air descending from the high Himalayan region, affecting not only the higher altitudes but also intensifying the cold conditions in the Terai regions.

Visibility in many Terai districts has dropped significantly due to the lingering low visibility caused by the ongoing weather conditions.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology advises caution in light of the extended cold and cool wave conditions.

Despite the absence of substantial precipitation observed so far this season, the prevailing weather system, combined with the existing meteorological conditions, raises concerns about prolonged cold spells in the coming weeks.

The experts recommend staying vigilant and prepared for the persistence of colder-than-average temperatures in the region.