KATHMANDU, JANUARY 2 Dense fog and mist have affected large parts of the Terai, while light snowfall and rain are forecast in the country's high hilly and mountainous regions, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM). In its 24-hour weather outlook issued at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, the DHM stated that the weather will remain generally cloudy in high hills and mountainous areas across all provinces, while the rest of the country will experience partly cloudy conditions. There is a chance of light snowfall at a few places in high-altitude regions nationwide, and light rain at one or two places in the hilly areas of Koshi and Gandaki provinces. Similar conditions are expected to persist tonight. The DHM said the current weather pattern is influenced by westerly winds. Fog situation in the Terai Under its Terai Mist/Fog/Cold Wave Bulletin, the DHM reported that many areas of the Terai in Koshi and Madhesh provinces are experiencing fog and mist, while some areas in other Terai regions are also affected. As of 8:45 am, dense fog was recorded in Janakpur with visibility reduced to 100 metres, while Biratnagar reported visibility of 800 metres. Other cities, including Dhangadhi, Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, Simara and Chandragadhi, were affected by mist, with visibility ranging from 1 to 4 kilometres. The DHM defines fog as visibility below one kilometre and mist as visibility between one and five kilometres. Improvement expected later today The weather office said fog and mist in most parts of Koshi, Madhesh and Sudurpaschim Terai are likely to improve after midday, while conditions in other Terai regions may improve by late morning to noon. However, the DHM has warned that foggy conditions could partially affect daily life, agriculture, health and road transportation in the Terai and has urged the public to take necessary precautions. The department also requested the public to stay updated through its regular three-day weather forecast bulletins issued daily.