Forest fire risk rises as heat builds up in Terai, light rain likely in hills

Kathmandu, April 15: The risk of forest fires is expected to rise as heat builds up across the Terai over the next three days, while hilly areas may witness brief spells of light rain and thunder, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.

The latest three-day weather bulletin states that weather will remain mainly fair in the Terai and inner Terai, with temperatures rising steadily. Maximum temperatures in the plains are likely to reach around 38–42°C, indicating intensifying pre-monsoon heat and dry conditions.

Hilly regions, including the Kathmandu Valley, are expected to see partly cloudy conditions with chances of isolated light rain and thunderstorms, particularly in the eastern and central parts. Temperatures in these areas are likely to remain moderate, around 29–31°C, while mountain regions will experience partly cloudy skies.

The largely dry conditions across much of the country, combined with rising temperatures, point to an increased likelihood of forest fires and heat stress. Limited and localized rainfall in the hills is not expected to provide significant relief, while the absence of widespread precipitation could also affect early agricultural activities.

April-May is also the prime tourist season in Nepal.