Mixed Weather Patterns Forecast for Nepal’s Hilly and Himalayan Belts
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s Weather Forecasting Division has issued a seasonal update, predicting a predominantly cloudy day for the country’s high-altitude regions. According to the latest bulletin, the hilly and Himalayan areas are currently experiencing significant cloud cover, driven by a combination of local atmospheric conditions and a feeble Western wind influence.
Specific focus remains on the Koshi Province, where the hilly regions are expected to remain generally cloudy throughout the day. This pattern extends to the Himalayan stretches of Bagmati and Gandaki provinces. While these areas face overcast skies, the rest of the country’s hilly and mountain regions will see partly cloudy conditions. In contrast, residents in the Tarai belt can expect mainly fair and stable weather, providing a stark climatic divide between the southern plains and the northern peaks.
Meteorologists have also warned of potential localized weather disruptions. There is a standing possibility of light rain accompanied by thunder and lightning in several areas of the Koshi Province’s hilly regions. Furthermore, light snowfall is anticipated in one or two locations within the Himalayan stretches of Bagmati and Gandaki provinces. Travelers and residents in these areas are advised to stay informed of sudden shifts in visibility and temperature.
As the day transitions into tonight, the weather is expected to remain largely unchanged in the southern regions, with the Tarai belt maintaining fair skies. However, the Himalayan regions of Koshi and Gandaki will continue to see general cloudiness. The hilly and Himalayan districts of other provinces are forecasted to remain partly cloudy overnight.
The Department attributes this current trend to the “feeble” nature of the prevailing Western winds, which lack the strength to trigger widespread heavy storms but are sufficient to maintain moisture and cloud development across the rugged terrain of Nepal. Citizens are encouraged to plan their outdoor activities accordingly, particularly in the eastern and central highlands where lightning risks persist.
