KATHMANDU, Oct 29: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) and the Weather Forecasting Division of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology have issued separate warnings, urging the public to remain vigilant as the effect of Cyclone Montha is expected to impact Nepal—particularly the eastern region—from Wednesday onwards.
According to the NDRRMA, Cyclone Montha, which developed in the Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall tonight along southern India, could affect 26 districts, mainly in Koshi and Madhes provinces, and some in Bagmati Province.
The districts likely to be most affected in Koshi Province include Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Bhojpur, Dhankuta, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari. In Madhes Province, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Mahottari, Dhanusha, and Saptari are expected to experience the storm’s effects. Likewise, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Kavrepalanchowk, Sindhupalchowk, Dolakha, Makawanpur, Chitwan, and Sindhuli in Bagmati Province are also likely to be affected.
The Weather Forecasting Division said there is a possibility of moderate snowfall in some high-hill and mountain areas of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces. Heavy snowfall may occur in one or two locations of the high mountainous regions of Koshi and Bagmati provinces. The impact is expected to be felt from Thursday afternoon through Saturday morning, due to the cyclone that developed in the Bay of Bengal.
The NDRRMA warned that during this period, the water levels in the Bagmati, Kamala, Koshi, and Kankai rivers and their tributaries are likely to rise significantly. Sudden surges could also occur in smaller rivers originating from the Mahabharat and Chure ranges in Madhes Province.
The division cautioned that possible rainfall and snowfall could trigger flash floods, landslides, and disruptions in road and air transport, along with adverse impacts on agriculture, tourism, and other sectors.
The NDRRMA has advised the public to take precautionary measures during this period. It urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, remain alert in areas prone to inundation, and relocate to safer places if necessary. Residents near riverbanks have been asked to stay vigilant and move to safety if risks increase. Farmers have been advised not to harvest rice and other crops during the period, and to store any harvested crops indoors immediately.
The authority said local disaster management and security committees will make necessary decisions regarding vehicle movement in affected areas. It also stated that all three security agencies, local governments, volunteers, and relevant agencies have been placed on standby for emergency response. Partner organizations involved in preparedness and pre-emptive action have been asked to stay in close contact with district and local disaster management committees and remain alert.