Snowfall and rain forecast across the country, trekkers cautioned

October 29, Kathmandu: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast moderate snowfall in high hilly and mountainous areas of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces today, with heavy snowfall possible at one or two locations in Koshi and Bagmati.

Similarly, water levels in the Bagmati, Kamala, Koshi, and Kankai rivers and their tributaries may rise significantly, potentially reaching alert levels as rainfall has been forecast in central and eastern part of the country. Small rivers in the Mahabharat and Chure regions of Koshi, Bagmati, and Madhesh provinces face risks of flash floods.

Districts including Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Dolakha, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Sindhuli, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Mahottari, Dhanusha, Saptari, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Bhojpur, Dhankuta, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari are prone to sudden river surges. The cyclonic storm ‘Montha,’ entering Andhra Pradesh, India, will weaken into a low-pressure system near central Nepal, contributing to these conditions.

The expected rainfall and snowfall may trigger flash floods, landslides, and disruptions to transportation, agriculture, and tourism.

With October-November being Nepal’s prime trekking season, trekkers are urged to monitor weather updates, avoid high-altitude routes prone to snowfall, and trek with experienced guides while carrying emergency supplies.