In Brief:

• Heavy rain likely in hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpashchim
• Bhairahawa, Simara, Janakpur could reach 35–37°C, Biratnagar and Dharan 34–36°C
• Kathmandu 29–31°C, Pokhara 31–33°C with 60% chance of rain
• Monsoon trough remains near normal position, keeping weather unsettled

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 23 Nepal is set for a contrasting monsoon Sunday, with heavy rain forecast in parts of five provinces while temperatures could climb to 37°C in several Tarai cities. The Meteorological Forecasting Division said heavy rain is likely at one or two places in the hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces. Moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected in many parts of the hills and some areas of the Tarai. Despite the widespread rain forecast, Bhairahawa, Simara and Janakpur could see temperatures rise as high as 35–37°C. Biratnagar and Dharan are forecast to reach 34–36°C, while Dhangadhi could record 33–35°C. In Kathmandu, moderate rain with thunderstorms is expected, with temperatures ranging between 29°C and 31°C and a 60 per cent chance of rain. Pokhara is also forecast to receive moderate rain with thunderstorms, with temperatures of 31–33°C and a 60 per cent probability of rain. The forecast for tonight shows generally cloudy conditions across the country, with rain or snowfall and thunderstorms likely in parts of the Himalayan and hilly regions. Rain is also possible in parts of Madhesh and the Terai areas of several provinces. The weather office said heavy rain is likely at one or two places in the hilly areas of Koshi and Bagmati provinces tonight. The entire country remains under the influence of monsoon winds, while the monsoon low-pressure line is currently around its normal position, according to the meteorological analysis. Travel and local activity in areas expecting heavy rain should be planned with caution, particularly in the hilly regions identified in the forecast.