Weather forecast: Flash flood risk in several districts

Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has issued a warning of a moderate risk of flash floods across several districts on July 8. The weather service is urging residents, particularly those living near smaller rivers and streams, to remain vigilant.

Heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of the Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces today. The DHM also indicated a possibility of significant rainfall in one or two locations within Madhesh Province. These conditions are attributed to the influence of monsoon winds, with the monsoon trough positioned south of its usual location in eastern Nepal and near average in the west, creating favorable conditions for widespread precipitation.

DHM flood expert Binod Parajuli highlighted that water levels in numerous small rivers and streams are expected to rise substantially. This includes waterways in districts such as Ilam, Jhapa, Tehrathum, Panchthar, Dhankuta, Saptari, Sunsari, Morang, Doti, and Dadeldhura, significantly increasing the potential for flash floods in these regions and their surrounding areas.

Over the past 24 hours, most of Nepal experienced light to moderate rainfall. The highest recorded rainfall during this period was 98.6 mm in Yanjakot, Kaski district, according to the DHM.

“

water levels in small rivers and streams flowing through Ilam, Jhapa, Tehrathum, Panchthar, Dhankuta, Saptari, Sunsari, Morang, Doti and Dadeldhura districts and surrounding areas are likely to rise significantly, increasing the risk of flash floods.