Below-average monsoon rainfall forecast, flood risk still high
According to department spokesperson and meteorologist Bibhuti Pokharel, the monsoon is also expected to bring above-average temperatures this year.
KATHMANDU: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has projected that most parts of Nepal are likely to receive below-average rainfall during this year’s monsoon season.
However, officials have warned that the risk of floods and landslides remains significant despite the reduced rainfall outlook.
According to department spokesperson and meteorologist Bibhuti Pokharel, the monsoon is also expected to bring above-average temperatures this year.
She said improvements in forecasting technology have made weather predictions more accurate and reliable than in the past.
The department has identified specific regions likely to experience lower rainfall, including the southern parts of Karnali Province, most areas of Lumbini Province, eastern parts of Madhesh Province, and southern areas of Koshi Province.
Meanwhile, higher-than-average temperatures are expected in several regions, including the northeastern parts of Sudurpaschim Province, northern areas of Karnali, western Lumbini, and eastern and southern parts of Koshi Province.
Despite the overall outlook of reduced rainfall, authorities caution that prolonged dry spells followed by sudden heavy downpours could still trigger flash floods and landslides, maintaining a persistent disaster risk throughout the monsoon season.
