06 Sep 2021 | 10:14 AM UTC
Nepal: Severe weather forecast nationwide through at least Sept. 9
Severe weather forecast in Nepal through at least Sept. 9. Disruptions to transport, utilities likely
Event
The southwest monsoon is bringing thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding across Nepal as of Sept. 6. The Nepal Department of Water and Meteorology has forecast further heavy rain in portions of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpashchim provinces and Province 1 through at least Sept. 8 and moderate rain nationwide through at least Sept. 9. Heavy rains are forecast for Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces Sept. 8-9. Authorities have issued the following warnings:
Red (the highest level on a three-tier scale) rainfall warnings: West Rapti River Basin at Banke District, Lumbini Province.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Multiple road closures are underway. Portions of the Helambu Highway in Melamchi Municipality 12 and 13, Sindhupalchok District, Bagmati Province are blocked at wards 12 and 13 due to landslides caused by heavy rain. Parts of the Melamchi-Jirokilo road section are closed to traffic at Bahunepati, Melamchi 12, and Fatakshila in Melamchi 13. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or additional roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
