Strong winds accompanied by rainfall are currently affecting most parts of Nepal, including Kathmandu Valley. Since Friday afternoon, heavy rain with windstorms has been reported in the valley and several Terai districts, making daytime conditions appear unusually dark.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has urged the public to remain on high alert, warning that hailstorms and strong winds could cause human and property damage. People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and take proper precautions.
Disaster management expert Dr. Dharmaraj Upreti emphasized that ignoring weather warnings often increases damage from natural disasters in Nepal. He advised people to avoid driving during storms, stay away from trees and electric poles, and remain indoors unless necessary.
According to the department, rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds is occurring in many areas of Karnali Province and Sudurpashchim Province, as well as some hilly and mountainous regions of Gandaki Province, Lumbini Province, and Koshi Province, along with parts of the Terai including Madhesh Province.
Department spokesperson Bibhuti Pokharel warned that strong winds in the Terai could last for 2 to 3 hours, urging extra caution. Wind speeds of around 50–60 km/h are expected, which could lead to fallen trees, damaged structures, and disruptions to electricity and communication services.
He added that the current weather system is gradually moving northeast, and continued vigilance is necessary. There is also a possibility of heavy rainfall or snowfall in one or two locations of the hilly and mountainous regions of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces.
The ongoing weather conditions are due to the combined influence of a western low-pressure system and local winds, according to the department.