PM Shah Urges Public to Stay Alert as Heavy Rainfall Forecast from Friday

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has urged the public to remain alert as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast across several parts of Nepal from Friday to Sunday . Shah, who is currently in New York to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, cited the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s forecast while urging people to take necessary precautions. According to the forecast, parts of Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from September 25 to 27. Heavy rainfall is also likely in some areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. The rainfall could trigger floods, landslides, debris flows and inundation, while disrupting road and air transportation, Shah said. He urged people to avoid highway travel during rainfall and refrain from travelling at night as far as possible. People living near rivers and streams, particularly in flood-prone areas, have also been advised to remain cautious. Shah also urged those planning trekking or travel to mountainous areas to postpone their trips until weather conditions improve and regularly follow updates from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and local administrations. He has also called on concerned government agencies to strengthen preparedness, coordination and vigilance in response to the forecast.