Monsoon Nears Nepal But Drier Conditions Loom

Nepal’s annual monsoon is expected to arrive about a week later than usual, raising concerns over prolonged heat and below-average rainfall during the country’s crucial rainy season.

According to senior meteorologist Barun Paudel, the monsoon has already reached the southern Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and is expected to advance through the Bay of Bengal before entering Nepal within the next week.

While an exact arrival date cannot be determined, weather officials say the system is likely to reach the country around a week from now.

Nepal’s average monsoon onset date is June 13.

However, the monsoon entered India later than its usual June 1 arrival this year, prompting forecasts that it could also reach Nepal later than normal.

Meteorologists are projecting below-average rainfall and higher-than-normal temperatures during this year’s monsoon season.

They also warn that rainfall distribution may be uneven, increasing the risk of flooding in some areas and drought-like conditions in others.

Authorities are preparing for potential weather-related impacts.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority estimates that around 226,000 people from 51,000 families could be affected during the monsoon period.

A national response plan has been prepared and put into operation to address possible disasters.

The delayed onset of the monsoon and the lack of rainfall have already intensified heat conditions across several districts in Nepal’s southern plains.

Temperatures have climbed to around 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the Terai-Madhesh region, while hot winds have disrupted daily life and increased health concerns for vulnerable communities.