Monsoon to enter Nepal within 10 days

KATHMANDU: Monsoon entering Nepal in the next 10 days.

Experts predict that the monsoon will enter Nepal’s Koshi State within the next ten to twelve days.

Highlighting the need for emergency preparedness, they have urged the government to make necessary preparations, noting that only one week remains to do so.

Climatologist Dr. Dharam Raj Upreti stated that the monsoon will enter Koshi State within 10 days and will take 15 to 20 days to reach the Far West of Nepal.

Given the forecast of heavy rainfall this year, Dr. Upreti stressed the importance of formulating plans and making preparations accordingly.

He emphasized that the state must focus on emergency preparedness in specific areas.

Dr. Upreti underscored the necessity of stockpiling essential supplies and food for relief and rescue operations.

He called on the Ministry of Home Affairs, security agencies, volunteers, the Red Cross, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, as well as provincial and local governments, to commence disaster preparedness and mobilize personnel immediately.

With the monsoon expected to become active in the eastern part of Nepal within 10 to 12 days and across the entire country in 15 to 20 days, Dr. Upreti advised the general public to exercise caution as well.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has projected higher rainfall this year compared to previous years.

Consequently, experts have advised the government to intensify preparedness efforts.

In response, the Nepal Red Cross Society has directed its bodies in all 77 districts to begin preparations to mitigate potential risks from the monsoon.

The Red Cross has urged its State and district branches to ensure the availability of personnel, financial resources, and essential materials.

Umesh Dhakal, Executive Director of the Nepal Red Cross Society, stated that they have already initiated preparations, considering the likelihood of disasters throughout the year and the forecast of heavy rainfall this monsoon season.

More than 50 percent of the necessary materials have been stockpiled to minimize potential damage.

Mr. Dhakal mentioned that directives have been issued for preparations across all States and districts, with financial resources and materials being secured.

He added that emergency funds have been allocated for various types of response measures, and funds will be mobilized as needed.

Moreover, the Red Cross is working on early warning systems in some areas and urged all bodies and organizations to take proactive steps to prevent incidents.

He also emphasized the importance of addressing extreme heat and health-related issues, urging everyone to pay necessary attention to these concerns as well.