Department of hydrology warns of sudden flash flood risks in small rivers, urges nationwide vigilance

KATHMANDU, July 19 — The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued a public warning advising residents living near small rivers and streams to exercise high caution as water levels are expected to rise significantly today.

According to meteorological forecasts, small rivers flowing through Gorkha, Rupandehi, Arghakhanchi, Kapilvastu, and Dang face a particularly high risk of sudden flash floods.

Authorities have also identified potential flash flood threats along rivulets in dozens of other districts, including Jhapa, Morang, Ilam, Sunsari, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Dolakha, Sindhupalchok, Kavrepalanchok, Chitwan, Kaski, Tanahun, Syangja, Parbat, Baglung, Gulmi, Palpa, Pyuthan, Banke, Bardiya, Doti, Dadeldhura, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Baitadi, and Darchula, as well as the three districts of the Kathmandu Valley.

Binod Parajuli, a hydrologist at the department, urged communities along riverbanks and nearby streams to remain on high alert. He warned that because water flows can surge unexpectedly, members of the public must strictly refrain from crossing rivers, fishing, extracting riverbed materials, or assembling near riverbanks during this period.

In light of the potential flood risk, the department has formally requested local administrations, security bodies, and local municipal authorities to maintain full operational readiness for disaster response and emergency management.