DHM warns of flash flood risk in several districts

KATHMANDU: Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has warned of a ‘moderate risk of flash floods’ in several districts today and urged residents, especially those living near small rivers and streams, to remain alert.

The weather service has forecast heavy rainfall at some places in the hilly areas and the southern plains of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces today, with a likelihood of heavy rain in one or two places in Madhesh Province.

The country is currently under the influence of monsoon winds. The monsoon trough lies south of its normal position over eastern Nepal and around its average location in the western part of the country, creating favourable conditions for widespread rainfall, the DHM said.

DHM flood expert Binod Parajuli warned that ‘water levels in small rivers and streams flowing through Ilam, Jhapa, Tehrathum, Panchthar, Dhankuta, Saptari, Sunsari, Morang, Doti and Dadeldhura districts and surrounding areas are likely to rise significantly’, increasing the risk of flash floods.

Most parts of the country received light to moderate rain over the past 24 hours. Yanjakot in Kaski district recorded the highest rainfall at 98.6 mm during this period.

Residents near small waterways and low-lying areas are advised to avoid crossing swollen streams, monitor local updates and be prepared to move to higher ground if water levels rise rapidly. Follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services.

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