Editorial photo #12341741 Weather

Pre-monsoon Rain Wrecks Havoc In Kathmandu

In 2024, Nepal is expected to witness above-normal monsoon rains for the second consecutive year, according to a regional consensus among South Asian meteorologists. Above-normal rains could cause more disasters, including flash floods and landslides. A statement issued by the 31st Session of the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum on April 29 indicates that most parts of South Asia are expected to receive above-normal rainfall during the 2025 southwest monsoon season, which spans from June to September. Monsoon onset typically occurs on June 13 and withdraws by October 2. The World Bank's recent Nepal Development Update notes that severe floods and landslides from September 26 to 28, caused by unusually intense monsoon activity intensified by climate change, result in damage amounting to 0.8 percent of the GDP. The total damage is estimated at Rs46.7 billion, affecting infrastructure, agriculture, and social sectors. Agricultural losses alone reach Rs7.2 billion, with vast farmland submerged, crops destroyed, and many livestock lost. (Photo by Subaas Shrestha/NurPhoto)