KATHMANDU, JUNE 15
While much of Nepal's hill and mountain regions are bracing for rain and thunderstorms, scorching temperatures are expected to persist across parts of the Tarai, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.
In its 24-hour forecast issued Monday morning, the department said moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning is likely at several places in the hilly and Himalayan regions of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces. Isolated rainfall is also forecast in Karnali and Sudurpashchim's hill and mountain districts.
The weather system is being influenced by a western low-pressure trough in the upper atmosphere along with local and easterly winds.
Pokhara, Kathmandu among rain hotspots
Pokhara is expected to receive the heaviest rainfall activity, with a 60 percent probability of moderate rain and thundershowers during the day. Similar weather is forecast in Taplejung, while Kathmandu, Okhaldhunga, Dhankuta, Jiri and Biratnagar are also likely to witness moderate rain and thunderstorms.
The department said rainfall activity is expected to continue into the evening, particularly in Koshi Province and adjoining hill districts.
Tarai swelters under intense heat
In contrast, hot day conditions are likely to prevail across parts of the western and central Tarai. Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa and Dhangadhi are forecast to record maximum temperatures between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, while Simara, Janakpur and Biratnagar are also expected to remain hot and humid.
The department has warned that hot day conditions may persist in some areas of Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces even during the night.
Thunderstorm alert
Meteorologists have advised residents in hilly and mountainous areas to remain cautious of thunderstorms, lightning and localized heavy showers, while people in the Tarai have been urged to take precautions against heat-related health risks.
The current weather pattern reflects the gradual strengthening of monsoon-like conditions in eastern and central Nepal, even as western Tarai districts continue to experience intense summer heat.