Kathmandu [Nepal], October 24 (ANI): Nepal is expected to experience rainfall reaching as much as 200 millimeters next week, driven by a developing cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, according to meteorological experts.
Meteorologist Binod Pokharel shared on social media that certain areas might see rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters during the wet period predicted from next Wednesday through Sunday.
“The forecasts I am reviewing suggest that total rainfall in some areas over the upcoming period could exceed 200 millimeters,” he stated on Facebook. “This should not be interpreted as rainfall occurring in a single day. The actual amounts, timing, and affected areas may still change.”
Further elaborating on the implications of 200 millimeters of rainfall, Pokharel pointed out that the impact hinges on the timing, location, and existing conditions. He cautioned, “Even during the monsoon, such rainfall over a short period would be hazardous. Since this is the time for harvesting paddy and also a period when many travel in the Himalayan regions, the consequences could be even more severe.”
Pokharel also noted the heightened risks in the high Himalayan regions, where heavy snowfall, extreme cold, and avalanches could pose additional dangers. “Please plan your travel only after checking weather updates and official advisories,” he advised.
He drew comparisons between the current weather system and the conditions that led to the deadly blizzard on October 14, 2014, stating, “In the incident associated with Cyclone Hudhud, 43 people lost their lives, including in the trekking regions around Annapurna. Current forecasts show some weather indicators similar to those seen during that event.” However, he added, “This does not necessarily mean the outcome will be the same. Hopefully, this time, by being alert in advance, we will be better prepared.”
Pokharel explained that as the low-pressure system from the Bay of Bengal approaches Nepal and interacts with an upper atmospheric low-pressure trough, the chances of significant rainfall will increase.
The weather developments in the Bay of Bengal have already initiated a weather system capable of bringing rain to Nepal. A low-pressure area was noted over the east-central and adjacent southeastern Bay of Bengal at 5:45 AM on Friday.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology in Nepal reported that this low-pressure region is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by Monday.
Once the storm develops, it is anticipated to move in a west-northwesterly direction, potentially making landfall near the coast of northern Andhra Pradesh and adjacent southern Odisha in India.
The Department has indicated that this weather system could influence conditions in Nepal from Wednesday (October 28) to Sunday (November 1).
“However, it is not yet possible to determine with certainty the amount of rainfall, the level of risk, or the potential impact this system might have on Nepal,” the Department stated. “Nevertheless, as the potential adverse weather could affect the agricultural and tourism sectors, all concerned parties are advised to remain alert.”
Additionally, the Department forecasts a slight decrease in both maximum and minimum temperatures across various regions of the country in the coming week.
