Key Takeaways:

• Heavy rain likely in Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, Koshi, Bagmati, and Sudurpashchim
• Kathmandu and Pokhara face high rainfall chances today
• DHM warns of flood, landslide, and waterlogging risks

KATHMANDU, JULY 17 The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast generally cloudy weather across the country on Friday, with widespread rainfall and the possibility of heavy rain in several provinces as monsoon conditions remain active. According to the department, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is likely at many places in the hilly region and at a few places in the Himalayan region. Similar weather is expected in parts of the Tarai of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Sudurpashchim, Madhesh and Koshi provinces. The department has warned of heavy rainfall at a few places in the hilly districts of Gandaki, Lumbini and Karnali provinces, and at one or two places in the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Sudurpashchim, as well as in the Tarai of Gandaki and Lumbini. Tonight, generally cloudy conditions are expected to persist, with light to moderate rain and thunderstorms forecast in parts of the Himalayan, hilly and Tarai regions. Heavy rainfall is likely at one or two places in the hilly and Tarai areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces. The department said the country remains under the influence of the monsoon system. The western section of the monsoon trough is positioned slightly north of its normal location near the Tarai, while the eastern section remains close to its average position. Among major cities, Pokhara and Kathmandu have high chances of rainfall during the day, while moderate rain is also forecast for Biratnagar, Dharan, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, Bhairahawa, Janakpur and other parts of the country. The department has advised the public, particularly those living in flood- and landslide-prone areas, to remain alert as persistent rainfall may increase the risk of flash floods, landslides and waterlogging.