Kathmandu, March 20
Rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is forecast from Friday afternoon until Saturday morning. Strong winds are projected in the districts of Lumbini and Koshi provinces. As this could cause damage, meteorologists have advised people to take precautions and avoid going outdoors unless necessary.
According to a notice issued at 6 am today by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the weather is generally cloudy across Sudurpashchim, Karnali, Lumbini, and Koshi provinces. Light rain/snowfall with thunder and lightning is occurring in one or two places in the Sudurpashchim, Karnali, and Koshi provinces.
However, from Friday afternoon, there is a possibility of heavy rain and snowfall at one or two places in the hilly and mountainous regions of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces. From Friday itself, strong winds are likely in the Terai districts of Lumbini Province, including areas around Dang and Nepalgunj, and on Saturday in Koshi Province, including areas around Biratnagar, Dhankuta, and Dharan. The wind speed is projected to reach around 119 km/h.
Therefore, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has issued a notice urging people to remain alert, as changing weather conditions may bring strong winds, rain, and snowfall in various parts of the country. According to the authority, risks include falling trees, damage to weak structures and roofs, and disruption to electricity and communication services.
Citing recent incidents of deaths and injuries due to strong winds over the past few days, the authority has urged residents and travellers in high-risk areas to exercise special caution.
The authority has also requested people to avoid travelling unless necessary, to securely close doors and windows during strong winds, to turn off sources of fire, and, if driving, to stop the vehicle and stay in a safe place. In crowded areas, people are advised not to panic, avoid rushing, and move calmly to safer locations.
It has also urged people not to stay near weak structures, tall trees, telephone and electric poles, or wires during strong winds; not to touch fallen or dangling power lines; to avoid using electrical appliances during such conditions; and not to remain in high-risk areas.
