Jan 22, Kathmandu - The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has announced that there is a possibility of rainfall in Nepal beginning from Magh 9 (Friday).

According to the Meteorological Forecast Division, rainfall is expected across the western regions of the country from Friday night until Saturday evening. Specifically, many areas in Sudurpashchim Province, Karnali Province, and Lumbini Province are forecasted to experience light to moderate rainfall.

Senior Meteorologist Barun Poudel from the division stated that along with the rain, moderate snowfall is also likely in the high mountainous regions.

He clarified that the rainfall will be moderate and will only last until Saturday evening. Poudel explained, “From Friday night to Saturday morning, especially in the western parts, a weather system bringing rain is approaching, accompanied by snowfall. However, this will not be heavy rainfall. It will be the first winter rain of the season, mainly affecting many areas in Sudurpashchim, Karnali, and Lumbini Provinces with light to moderate rainfall. Moderate snowfall is expected in the high mountainous regions. Additionally, there might be some light rain or drizzle in Kathmandu as the system moves eastward, but no rain is expected in the eastern regions since the system originates from the west and comes from the upper atmosphere. It will gradually clear up from Saturday afternoon or evening.”

The Meteorological Division also forecasts another chance of light rainfall starting from the night of Magh 13 (Tuesday). They expect light rain from Tuesday night to Wednesday, with the possibility of moderate snowfall in high mountainous areas.

Poudel added, “There will be another system arriving from Tuesday night to Wednesday, which may bring snowfall to the high mountainous regions. After that, the weather is expected to clear up, and no heavy rainfall is anticipated.”

Earlier last week, light rainfall was observed in eastern districts such as Taplejung, but moderate snowfall in high mountainous regions did not occur.

Currently, the weather across the country remains mostly clear, although some parts of Terai may experience fog and mist. The higher hills and Himalayan areas in Koshi and Gandaki provinces may see partial weather changes. Experts suggest that this system could bring some relief to the current dry and dusty conditions. Given that this winter has seen below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures, the expected rainfall is likely to have a positive impact on agriculture, air pollution control, and water resources.