Kathmandu, July 29: The Meteorological Forecasting Division has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in several parts of the country today as monsoon conditions remain active across Nepal.

According to the Division, the country is currently under the influence of monsoon winds. The monsoon trough is positioned near its average location in eastern Nepal and slightly north of its normal position over the western region.

This morning, skies remained generally cloudy over Koshi, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, while the Terai areas of Madhesh, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces experienced partly cloudy conditions. Light to moderate rainfall has already been recorded at several locations in Bagmati, Koshi, Gandaki, Lumbini and Karnali provinces.

For this afternoon, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy across the hilly and mountainous regions, as well as the Terai of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces. The Terai districts of Koshi and Madhesh provinces are likely to experience partly cloudy skies.

The Division has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall with thunder and lightning at several places in the hilly region, while some Terai areas of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces, along with a few locations in Koshi and Madhesh provinces, are also likely to receive moderate to heavy rain. Heavy rainfall is expected at one or two locations in the hilly districts of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, as well as isolated areas of the Sudurpaschim Terai. Light to moderate snowfall or rainfall is also possible in parts of the high mountainous region.

Tonight, cloudy conditions are expected to persist across the country. Moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is likely in parts of the hilly and Terai regions, while the high mountains may witness rain and snowfall. The Division has also warned of heavy rainfall at one or two places in the hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces.

The Meteorological Forecasting Division has advised the public, particularly those living in flood- and landslide-prone areas, to remain alert as heavy rainfall could trigger localized disasters and disrupt transportation.