Monsoon retreats from Koshi Province, delaying spread across Nepal

Kathmandu: The monsoon, which had entered Nepal’s Koshi Province on May 29th—15 days earlier than usual—has unexpectedly shifted back toward East Asia, delaying its spread across the country.

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, a strong low-pressure system over East Asia has diverted monsoon winds toward the Philippines.

Meteorologist Govinda Jha stated that this has halted the monsoon’s progress beyond Koshi, and no further advancement is expected for several days.

Heavy rain and flooding occurred in eastern Nepal shortly after the monsoon’s onset, including road damage in Sangurigadhi and house submersions in Jhapa. However, there has been no rainfall since.

Jha explained that strong westerly winds and weak monsoon currents from the Bay of Bengal are causing rising temperatures nationwide.

Such a break in the monsoon could result in erratic weather—intense rain in some areas and drought in others.

Cloudy weather is expected from tomorrow as new low-pressure systems form over the Bay of Bengal and central India, which may bring rainfall.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has activated a response plan. NEA spokesperson Ram Bahadur KC said preparations are underway to assist up to two million people, with about 10% potentially requiring relief and rescue.