Bagmati River exceeds warning level as heavy rains trigger flood alerts across Nepal

Persistent monsoon rainfall has pushed the Bagmati River above its warning level in Kathmandu, while rising water levels in the Koshi River and localised flooding in the capital have prompted authorities to issue flood warnings and urge residents to remain vigilant.

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), the Bagmati River at the Gaurighat monitoring station reached 2.41 meters, exceeding the 2.1-meter warning threshold. The river, however, remains below the 2.7-meter danger level.

DHM flood expert Binod Parajuli said the river is continuing to rise and advised people living along riverbanks and in flood-prone areas to remain on high alert until at least Monday morning. The department also urged residents to avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, move to safer locations if conditions worsen, and follow official flood and landslide advisories.

Elsewhere, the Koshi River experienced a significant surge in discharge due to continuous rainfall. Water flow increased from 176,305 cusecs at 8:00 a.m. to 209,840 cusecs by 4:00 p.m..

In response, authorities have opened several of the 56 gates of the Koshi Barrage to manage the rising flow. Red warning lights and flags have been activated at the barrage, and officials have appealed to nearby residents to stay away from riverbanks and remain prepared for possible flooding.

Heavy rain also inundated Maitighar Mandala in central Kathmandu, disrupting traffic for the second time in recent weeks. The area has been repeatedly affected by waterlogging, with inadequate drainage infrastructure continuing to exacerbate flooding during periods of intense rainfall.

Authorities said they are closely monitoring river conditions and urged the public to stay updated on official weather, flood, and landslide warnings as monsoon rains continue across the country.

In a separate precautionary measure, authorities have announced the temporary closure of the Narayanghat–Muglin–Kathmandu highway to all vehicular traffic from 10:00 p.m. Sunday until further notice. The Chitwan District Administration Office said the decision was taken due to ongoing rainfall in Chitwan, Dhading and surrounding districts, coupled with forecasts of more rain, which have heightened the risk of landslides, falling rocks and other weather-related hazards along the route.

Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal said the closure was approved by the District Security Committee to minimize the risk of nighttime accidents. Authorities advised travelers to postpone their journeys and monitor official updates before using the highway.

Officials continue to monitor river conditions and weather forecasts, urging the public to stay informed through official flood, landslide and weather advisories as heavy monsoon rains persist across the country.