Cyclone ‘Montha’ Expected to Affect Nepal Within Two Days

A powerful tropical cyclone named Montha, which has developed over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to enter Nepal within the next two days, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.

Currently centered near Visakhapatnam, India, the cyclone is moving northwestward and is likely to bring significant rainfall as it advances towards Nepal. The system is carrying large amounts of moisture from the ocean, which could result in heavy rainfall particularly across the Koshi and Madhesh provinces. Its impact may also extend to the hilly and Himalayan regions of Koshi and Bagmati provinces.

Meteorologists forecast that the cyclone’s influence will be felt from Thursday afternoon (October 30) through Saturday afternoon (November 1). During this period, heavy snowfall is also expected in some high-altitude areas.

While major rivers are currently flowing at normal levels, officials warn that water levels could rise notably as the system approaches. Residents living along riverbanks are urged to stay alert, especially near the Bagmati and Koshi rivers where flood risks could increase. Smaller rivers and streams in the hilly and Chure regions of Koshi and Madhesh provinces may also experience sudden surges in flow.

The department further noted that although a major flood situation is unlikely, the water levels could approach warning levels, potentially posing risks to settlements near riverbanks.

Meanwhile, due to a separate low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea, cloudy weather and light precipitation have been observed in several parts of the country since Tuesday. Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly on Wednesday before deteriorating again as Cyclone Montha intensifies its effect from Thursday onward.