KATHMANDU:- Heatwave conditions are likely to persist in the western Terai regions of the country today. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has stated that there is a possibility of heatwaves occurring in some Terai areas of Sudurpaschim and Lumbini provinces today.
Department spokesperson Bibhuti Pokharel also urged people to be extra vigilant as extreme heat in the Terai regions of Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could have adverse effects on public health.
According to the department’s weather forecast, the maximum temperature in Dhangadhi today is likely to reach 38 to 40 degrees Celsius and in Nepalgunj, the maximum temperature is likely to reach 39 to 41 degrees Celsius. The temperature in Bhairahawa, Birgunj, Ghorahi and Simara is expected to be around 35 to 38 degrees Celsius.
The department has stated that there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall along with thunder and lightning in the hilly and mountainous areas of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces. There is a possibility of rainfall in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Dhankuta, Biratnagar, Dharan and Taplejung, among other areas. The maximum temperature in the Kathmandu Valley today is predicted to be 28 to 30 degrees Celsius.
The department has urged residents to avoid going outdoors unnecessarily during the afternoon amidst the extreme heat, to drink plenty of water, to wear light cotton clothing, and to take special care of children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. According to climatologists, the duration and intensity of heatwaves in Nepal’s Terai region have been increasing in recent years due to climate change.
This has had a direct impact on health, agriculture, and daily life.