Monsoon rainfall predicted to be less than average this year

Kathmandu, May 4: Rainfall less than average is predicted during monsoon this year. There is a possibility of low rainfall than average in most parts of the country (35 to 55 percent) during monsoon that starts from 1 June to 30 September this year, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. 

The Department every year issues monsoon forecast by organising an event with the theme of 'national monsoon forum' before the beginning of monsoon. The line minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet was chief guest at the event. 

Average rainfall is likely at 35 to 45 percent in the central and north-eastern parts of Koshi Province, south-eastern parts of Bagmati Province and most parts of Madhes Province. 

Similarly, there is 35 to 55 percent possibility of the entire country getting maximum temperature more than average, and some parts may have average minimum temperature, and others minimum temperature more than average. Most parts are predicted to have minimum temperature more than average (35 to 45 percent). 

Likewise, central part of Sudurpaschim Province, mid-western parts of Karnali Province, northern parts of Gandaki and Bagmati Provinces, eastern and western part of Lumbini Province and eastern part of Madhes Province are likely to  see average temperature (35 to 45 percent). (RSS)