The influence of the westerly low-pressure system accompanied by the westerly winds has brought noticeable changes to the weather across Nepal, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley and mountainous regions.
The Kathmandu Valley experienced light rainfall on December 24, attributed to the westerly low-pressure system that had impacted the country since Sunday night. While this system caused widespread cloudiness, only light rainfall was recorded in parts of the country.
Dadeldhura, for instance, received 9 millimeters of rain over the past 24 hours, with snowfall reported in several high hill and mountainous areas. Despite the cloud cover, the weather has begun to improve gradually, and clearer conditions are expected today (December 25) compared to the previous day.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology reported that the Kathmandu Valley recorded a minimum temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius, with the maximum temperature expected to range between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius. However, the department has urged residents to exercise caution due to foggy conditions anticipated in some parts of the Terai and Valley on Thursday morning.
Snowfall Disrupts Daily Life in Humla
In Humla district, snowfall has significantly disrupted daily life and transportation. Snowfall began on Monday night. As of now, two inches of snow have accumulated in Simkot, the district headquarters, with up to one foot recorded in areas like Namkha Rural Municipality. The temperature has dropped to minus seven degrees Celsius in Simkot and minus ten degrees in northern parts of the district.
The snowfall has halted flights between Nepalgunj and Simkot, with airlines such as Summit Air, Sita Air, and Tara Air unable to operate. Vehicular movement within the district has also come to a standstill. Chief of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Humla Station, Mohan Bista, confirmed that thick fog and icy conditions have further hampered transportation.
Chief District Officer Narayan Pandey has cautioned residents, particularly the elderly and children, to take safety measures during the cold wave and snowfall. He also warned of potential avalanches in snow-covered settlements like Limi, Yari, Halji, Til, and Hilsa Chala in Namkha Rural Municipality.
Meteorologists predict that while weather conditions will improve gradually from Wednesday, a new weather system may develop by Friday night, potentially bringing further changes. -- RSS
