Nepal PM Balendra Shah warns of floods, landslides as extreme rain looms over weekend

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah Wednesday urged people to remain on high alert and avoid unnecessary travel as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast across several parts of the country from Friday to Sunday, raising the risk of floods, landslides and inundation.

Citing forecasts issued by Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Shah said parts of Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall between September 25 and 27. Heavy rain is also expected at some places in Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.

The warning comes weeks after devastating flash floods struck parts of Nepal, leaving extensive damage and keeping disaster preparedness high on the government’s agenda.

Travel warning issued

Shah, who is currently in New York to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, said the expected rainfall could trigger floods, landslides, debris flows and inundation, besides disrupting road and air transport.

He advised people to avoid travelling on highways during periods of heavy rainfall and, as far as possible, refrain from travelling at night. Residents living near rivers and streams, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding, have also been asked to exercise heightened caution.

People planning trekking expeditions or travel to mountainous regions have been advised to postpone their journeys until weather conditions improve. Shah urged the public to regularly follow weather bulletins and alerts issued by the meteorological department and instructions from local administrations.

The Prime Minister also directed government agencies to strengthen preparedness, coordination and vigilance to minimise the potential impact of the weather system.

Bay system drives rainfall

The increased rainfall activity is linked to a low-pressure system that developed over the northern Andaman Sea and adjoining areas before moving into the Bay of Bengal and intensifying.

Nepal’s meteorological authorities had earlier warned that the system would increase rainfall activity across the country during the latter part of the week, with the strongest spell expected between Friday and Sunday.

The forecast indicates the possibility of particularly intense rainfall over parts of Gandaki and Lumbini, while several other provinces could also experience significant downpours. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected in some areas.

Officials have warned that sustained rainfall could increase the possibility of landslides in hilly areas and cause water levels to rise rapidly in rivers and streams. Road blockages and disruption to domestic flights are also possible if weather conditions deteriorate.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has asked people to continue monitoring official forecasts as the weather system develops, with alerts likely to be updated according to changes in its intensity and movement.