Kathmandu, November 5
The weather is forecast to remain sunny for most of the upcoming Tihar festival in Nepal.
According to meteorologists, rainfall is unlikely in most parts of the country over the next week. Light rain may occur in one or two places, but it is not expected to affect daily life.
This year, Kaag Tihar, the first day of Yama Panchak, falls on November 8, while Bhai Tika falls on November 11.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology on Thursday issued a forecast for the period from November 5 to 9, the day of Gai Puja. It said there would be no significant change in the weather. The bulletin states that light rain is likely only in one or two places, with light fog expected in the Tarai-Madhesh, the Kathmandu Valley and river gorges in the early morning.
Dr Binod Pokharel, an associate professor at the Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology at Tribhuvan University, also shared the outlook for the coming week. He said there was no possibility of widespread or continuous rainfall throughout the Tihar period.
Dr Pokharel said the favourable weather would make the coming days easier for people preparing to celebrate Tihar with enthusiasm and for farmers getting ready to harvest paddy.
He also drew attention to the risk of rising air pollution along with the sunny weather. Winter usually brings little rainfall and weak winds. Industries, vehicles, agricultural activities and construction work add to air pollution during this time.
