Kathmandu, Oct. 30: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has issued a warning, advising the public to stay alert as Cyclone Montha, which originated over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to impact various parts of Nepal from Thursday to Saturday.
The cyclone, which made landfall in India’s Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, is anticipated to weaken as it moves north-northwest. However, it will bring significant rainfall, thunderstorms, and snowfall to the region, according to a statement from DHM.
Binod Parajuli, a senior hydrologist at the DHM, explained that the cyclone’s effects would primarily be felt in eastern, central, and western Nepal, with heavy rainfall expected across many areas. The provinces of Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali are likely to experience intense rainfall, while some regions in Bagmati and Lumbini provinces could also face heavy downpours.
Parajuli further warned that the rainfall could lead to flooding in smaller rivers, and heavy snowfall is anticipated in the high-altitude areas of Bagmati, Koshi, and Gandaki provinces. Some areas in Sudurpaschim and Lumbini provinces may also see snowfall in higher elevations.
He pointed out that this unusual heavy snowfall is caused by the moisture brought by Cyclone Montha from the Bay of Bengal, rather than the typical westerly systems. Such cyclonic weather patterns are not common in Nepal and are considered rare occurrences.
The latest forecast suggests that several regions, including eastern, central, and western Nepal, could experience extremely heavy rainfall. This could lead to a significant rise in water levels in major rivers such as the Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali, as well as the Bagmati, Narayani, and Mahakali rivers.
Major cities like Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Pokhara, Butwal, Dharan, and Biratnagar are at risk of floods and landslides due to the expected heavy rains.
“Given the potential hazards, including rapid water level rise, landslides, and disruptions to daily life, transportation, agriculture, tourism, and other sectors, authorities and the public are urged to stay vigilant,” Parajuli said.
He also recommended that the public keep updated through the DHM’s website, social media platforms, toll-free number (1155), and SMS services for the latest weather information.
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