Zillar Barta Desk : Nepal has stepped up its disaster preparedness and emergency response measures after meteorological authorities warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the country.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast significant rainfall from September 24 to 27, with some areas facing the possibility of extremely heavy rain. The weather system is linked to a low-pressure system developing over the Bay of Bengal.
Authorities have warned that the rainfall could increase the risk of floods, landslides, debris flows, soil erosion and urban inundation. Particular caution has been advised in vulnerable areas of Gandaki, Lumbini, Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.
Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has activated preparedness mechanisms, while security agencies have been placed on high alert. Officials are monitoring river levels and rainfall conditions in real time, with early-warning systems and public alerts being strengthened.
Nepal Police has also kept thousands of personnel and rescue teams on standby, with specialised equipment and drones prepared for possible emergency operations. Night-time movement has been restricted on several high-risk highways and road sections because of the threat of floods and landslides.
Helicopter operators have separately been asked to keep aircraft ready for potential rescue operations, while airlines have been advised to exercise caution amid forecasts of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly on highways and in mountainous areas, and to follow official weather and disaster-management updates.
The latest warning comes as Nepal continues to deal with the aftermath of devastating flash floods earlier in August, which caused extensive damage to roads, bridges and communities. Authorities are therefore maintaining heightened vigilance as further heavy rainfall could complicate relief and recovery efforts.
