Rain and Thunderstorms Bring Relief to Hills as Dhangadhi and Nepalgunj Face Ongoing Heat Wave

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast a day of contrasting weather across Nepal today. While several provinces are bracing for light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning, a grueling heat wave is expected to persist over the western Terai region. According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces will experience generally cloudy conditions, whereas the rest of the Terai plains will remain mainly fair.

Meteorologists have indicated that atmospheric conditions are currently being driven by a combination of westerly and local winds, paired with a low-pressure system situated near the eastern region of Nepal. This system is likely to trigger thundershowers and light snowfall in the high-hilly and Himalayan areas of Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces. Major urban centers and hilly towns, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Okhaldhunga, Dhankuta, and Taplejung, are all on alert for moderate daytime rainfall.

In stark contrast, residents in the western Terai districts of Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces must prepare for punishingly hot daytime temperatures. Cities like Dhangadhi and Nepalgunj are projected to see the mercury soar between 39 and 41 degrees Celsius, prolonging severe heat wave conditions.

Heading into the evening, cloudy skies will persist over Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces, maintaining the likelihood of nocturnal rain and thunderstorms in hilly terrains. Additionally, authorities have issued a warning regarding potentially destructive, gusty winds that could sweep through parts of Madhesh, Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces later today. Residents in these vulnerable areas are advised to take necessary precautions against sudden windstorms and lightning strikes.