Kathmandu, July 1
Wishing for the rain to stop that’s been lashing the country for the last few days? Wait for a few more days, advise weather experts.
They predict that the rain will continue tomorrow and the day after.
Though the downpour has come as a relief for farmers involved in paddy cultivation, the same has put the Himalayan region, the Hills and the Tarai at increased risks by triggering flooding and landslides.
Water level has increased significantly in Mahakali (Far West) and Koshi rivers (East), panicking people living close to their banks.
While in Madi of Chitwan, a rain-swollen Riu Stream is panicking local people.
Hydrologist Vinod Parajuli stresses the need to take adequate precautions as water level is rising in Nepal’s rivers and streams.
Water level is rising in Koshi, Narayani, Karnali and Mahakali rivers, among others, he says, adding: We need to take precautions if rainfall continues at this rate tomorrow as well.
In Kathmandu Valley, major roads have turned into huge pools, thanks to incessant rains. At Putalisadak, Jamal, Sorhakhutte and Jawalakhel, waterlogging has added to motorists’ and pedestrians’ woes. And rains delayed flights to and from the Tribhuvan International Airport. With visibilityy at 1,500 metres, large planes bound for the TIA had to divert.
Sudan Subedi, weather expert, says rains will continue for a few more days. He told Onlinekhabar: Monsoon is active throughout the country, there’s likelihood of heavy rain in eastern and western regions of Nepal.
According to Subedi, Bhairahawa has received highest rainfall. As of 8.45 am (Friday), Bhairahawa had received 92 mm rainfall, whereas Kathmandu has received 23 mm rainfall.
In the last 24 hours, Kathmandu has received record rainfall of 95 mm. On June 9, 1980, Kathmandu had recorded 100.1 mm rainfall.
