Eastern Tarai, Madhes Province still waiting for sufficient rainfall

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, July 4: Several parts of Kathmandu experienced moderate to heavy rainfall on Thursday.  However, it lasted only for a brief period. 

In the bustling New Road area, people were caught off guard as sudden downpours swept through the streets. Surprised pedestrians could be seen dashing for shelter, seeking refuge from the unexpected burst of rain.

The western parts of the country have been continuously receiving rainfall. However, the eastern Tarai and Madhes Province are still waiting for sufficient monsoon rain, as the precipitation so far has not been enough for paddy plantation.

Hari Prasad Dahal, a meteorologist at the Meteorological Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), said that almost all parts of Kathmandu experienced moderate rainfall. 

“There is no meteorological station located within New Road itself, so we are unable to provide the exact amount of rainfall recorded in the area. However, the stations situated in surrounding locations reported moderate rainfall on Thursday,” Dahal explained.

Kritipur station recorded 10.2 mm rainfall within one hour on Thursday afternoon, he said.

“The eastern Tarai and Madhes Province are likely to receive light rainfall tonight and on Friday, which may bring some relief to the farmers waiting for paddy plantation,” Dahal said. 

Monsoon is active across the country, so there is likely to have enough rainfall for another three days.

According to DHM, there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in many places of Koshi Province, Bagmati Province, Gandaki Province, Lumbini Province and 

Sudurpaschim Province. 

There is also a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall at one or two places in Koshi Province, Madhes Province, Bagmati Province, Gandaki Province, Lumbini Province, Karnali Province, and Sudurpaschim Province. Light to moderate rainfall or snowfall is also likely at a few places in the high-hill and mountainous regions of the country, DHM said.

Due to the expected rainfall, there is a risk of soil erosion, floods, landslides, and debris flow. There is also a possibility of waterlogging in urban and Tarai areas, along with a rise in water levels in large and small rivers and streams. Daily life, agriculture, health, tourism, construction works near rivers, roads, and air transport may also be affected. 

Therefore, the general public and all concerned authorities are requested to take necessary precautions and remain prepared, DHM said.