KATHMANDU: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued a special alert urging the public and relevant authorities to remain vigilant from October 4 to 6, due to a heightened risk of sudden river surges in several districts.
The Department has warned of a high possibility of flash floods in small rivers flowing through Kathmandu Valley, Kavrepalanchowk, Sindhupalchowk, Rasuwa, Makawanpur, and Chitwan in Bagmati Province; and Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, and Rautahat in Koshi and Madhesh provinces.
According to the Department, a low-pressure system developing in the Bay of Bengal has started moving inland from Odisha, India, and is gradually advancing toward central India.
This system is likely to activate monsoon conditions in Nepal from October 2 to 6, with increased rainfall expected in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces.
The Department has forecast a significant rise in water levels in major rivers such as the Narayani, Bagmati, Kamala, and Koshi, along with their tributaries—some of which may approach danger levels. Sudden increases in river flow are also expected in the Mahabharat and Chure hill ranges across the affected provinces.
As the monsoon season has not yet officially ended, the Department said it is closely monitoring weather and flood conditions. It has urged the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions by following updates through its official website, social media platforms, toll-free number 1155, and the ‘QQ’ alert system.
Considering the risks of floods, inundation, landslides, and erosion indicated in the forecast—along with potential disruptions to road and air transport—the Department has urged all disaster risk reduction and management agencies, as well as the general public, to promptly share its regular forecasts and advance warnings, and to undertake necessary preparedness measures to minimize potential damage.
Comment