Flood risk rises in several districts as small rivers may see sudden surge

KATHMANDU: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has urged residents living near rivers and streams in several districts to remain highly alert as water levels in small rivers may rise significantly today.

According to the department, small rivers flowing through Gorkha, Rupandehi, Arghakhanchi, Kapilvastu and Dang are at high risk of sudden flooding.

The department has also warned of possible flash floods in small rivers and streams around Jhapa, Morang, Ilam, Sunsari, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Dolakha, Sindhupalchok, Kavrepalanchok, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Chitwan, Kaski, Tanahun, Syangja, Parbat, Baglung, Gulmi, Palpa, Nawalparasi East, Nawalparasi West, Pyuthan, Banke, Bardiya, Doti, Dadeldhura, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Baitadi and Darchula.

Flood expert at the department, Binod Parajuli, advised people in riverbank areas and nearby settlements to exercise special caution.

“Water flow in rivers can increase suddenly. People should avoid crossing rivers, fishing, extracting river materials, or staying and travelling along riverbanks during such conditions,” he said.

The department has also requested local administrations, security agencies and local governments to remain prepared for possible emergency flood situations and take necessary precautionary and response measures.