Kathmandu, September 23
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has urged the public to remain alert as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast across several parts of Nepal from Friday to Sunday.
Shah, who is currently in New York to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, cited the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s forecast in urging people to take precautions. He is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday.
According to the forecast, parts of Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from September 25 to 27, while heavy rainfall is also likely in some areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.
Recent weather alerts have warned of increased risks of flooding and landslides as a weather system develops over the Bay of Bengal.
Shah said the rainfall could trigger floods, landslides, debris flows and inundation, while also disrupting road and air transportation.
He urged people to avoid highway travel during rainfall and, as far as possible, refrain from travelling at night.
The prime minister also advised people to remain cautious in areas near rivers and streams, particularly locations considered vulnerable to flooding.
He has urged people planning trekking or travel to mountainous areas to postpone their trips until weather conditions improve.
Shah also called on the public to regularly follow weather updates issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and instructions from local administrations.
He urged relevant government agencies to strengthen preparedness, coordination and vigilance in response to the forecast.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology maintains a warning system covering rainfall, floods, landslides and other weather-related hazards.
