Risk of rain and snowfall; public urged to remain cautious
KATHMANDU:- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has urged the public to exercise high caution, as the cyclone ‘Arnab’—currently developing in the Bay of Bengal—is expected to bring heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds on the 13th and 14th of Kartik.
In a notice, the Authority stated that moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds is likely in many areas across Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, with the possibility of heavy rainfall in some locations.
According to Authority spokesperson Ram Bahadur KC, the weather forecast issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology indicates that Nepal could be affected by Cyclone ‘Arnab’ starting Friday, Kartik 13.
As a result, rainfall is possible in some areas of the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. Furthermore, the Authority has stated that there is a high risk of heavy snowfall, blizzards, and avalanches in the high-hilly and Himalayan regions.
To avoid potential disasters, the Authority has advised against traveling to high-hilly and Himalayan regions—unless absolutely necessary—and has urged people to avoid staying along the banks of rivers and streams or in areas prone to flooding.
Furthermore, the Authority has requested that the public regularly monitor weather forecasts and official early warnings, and move to a safe location immediately if any risk of disaster arises.
Spokesperson KC stated that the Authority has requested the public to contact 1155 for weather-related information, 1234 for disaster assistance, 100 for the Nepal Police, and 1144 for the Tourist Police, in order to obtain necessary support during emergencies.
