New Weather System May Cause Rain in Nepal, Impact Unclear

Kathmandu. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has clarified that although a new seasonal system developing around the Andaman Sea and currently centered in the Bay of Bengal is expected to cause rain in Nepal, its potential impact and risk level cannot be ascertained at this time. The department stated that it is closely monitoring the system as it moves northwest. Meteorologist Binumaharjan of the Meteorological Forecasting Division said that the low-pressure system that developed around the Andaman Sea is currently located in the east-central part of the Bay of Bengal. She stated that this system is likely to become more organized and stronger in the coming days, moving towards the west-northwest. Although the possibility of rain in Nepal has increased due to this seasonal activity, the division's analysis is that its actual impact, amount of rainfall, and potential damage cannot be determined yet. Meanwhile, although the monsoon low-pressure line is currently slightly south of its average position, rain is forecast in various parts of the country within the next 24 hours due to the newly developed system. Today afternoon, moderate rain is expected in some places in the hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces, with the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall in one or two places in the hilly regions of these provinces. The division has issued a 'yellow alert' for areas at risk of heavy rainfall and urged preparedness. In the last 24 hours, the highest rainfall recorded was 41.8 mm at Khanikhola station in Tanahun and 38.8 mm at Silinge in Makwanpur.