Thunderstorms and heavy rain likely across several provinces

KATHMANDU: As monsoon activity picks up across Nepal, several provinces are likely to experience rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning today and tonight, prompting weather officials to urge caution in vulnerable areas.

According to the Weather Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, light to moderate rainfall with thunder and lightning is likely at some places in Koshi Province, Bagmati Province, Gandaki Province, and Sudurpaschim Province.

A few areas in the remaining provinces may also receive rain. Additionally, heavy rainfall is expected at one or two locations in the hilly regions of Koshi and Bagmati provinces.

Light to moderate rain or snowfall may occur at one or two places in the high hilly and mountainous regions of the country.

Tonight, the weather is expected to intensify. Light to moderate rainfall with thunder and lightning is likely in many areas of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces, and at a few locations in other provinces.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in some parts of Gandaki, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces, with a possibility of similar conditions at isolated places in Koshi, Bagmati, and Lumbini provinces. Rain or snowfall is also likely at several locations in the country’s mountainous and high hilly terrain.

Meteorologists classify rainfall intensity as follows: light rain refers to less than 10 millimeters within 24 hours; moderate rain is between 10 and 50 millimeters; heavy rain ranges from 50 to 100 millimeters; very heavy rain falls between 100 and 200 millimeters; and extremely heavy rainfall exceeds 200 millimeters in a 24-hour period.

In weather terminology, “rain at one or two places” indicates a likelihood of precipitation in less than 10 percent of a province’s area.

If rain is expected in 10 to 30 percent of an area, it is referred to as “a few places.” Rainfall in 30 to 50 percent of an area is described as “some places,” while 50 to 80 percent coverage is called “many places.” If over 80 percent of the area is likely to receive rainfall, the term “most places” is used.

With weather patterns expected to remain active, authorities advise residents—especially those in hilly and flood-prone areas—to stay updated on official forecasts and take necessary precautions.