Live updates: Persistent rainfall affects daily life across provinces

Koshi River flow rises, 31 barrage gates opened

The flow of the Saptakoshi River at the Koshi Barrage rose to 240,555 cusecs by 2 PM on Friday, prompting authorities to open 31 of the barrage’s 56 gates.

The flow stood at 198,220 cusecs at 10 AM, when 25 gates were open. It rose to 229,960 cusecs by 1 PM, prompting authorities to open 30 gates, before reaching the latest level an hour later. A red warning light is switched on at the western side of the barrage when the flow exceeds 150,000 cusecs.

Other rivers in the Koshi basin were also at warning levels as of around 4:50 PM. The Tamor River at Triveni in Dhankuta was rising at 9.24 metres, against a warning level of 9 metres. The Saptakoshi at Chatara was also rising at 6.36 metres, against a warning level of 6 metres. The Roshi Khola at Panauti in Kavrepalanchok stood at 4.46 metres and was steady, while the Trishuli Khola at Dhunche in Nuwakot was at 3.44 metres and steady. All four stations were reporting warning-level conditions.

Authorities have urged people living along the Saptakoshi to remain alert, avoid vulnerable areas and move to safer locations if necessary. They have also asked residents not to fish or collect firewood from the river as the water level continues to rise.

Kulekhani reservoir rises 50cm in a day

The water level at the Kulekhani reservoir in Makwanpur rose to 1,522.75 metres on Friday, up 50 centimetres from 1,522.25 metres a day earlier. 

All three units of the Kulekhani hydropower project are operating at full capacity to maximise water use and prevent the reservoir from rising further amid continued rainfall. The three units are generating a combined 106 MW — 60 MW from Kulekhani I, 32 MW from Kulekhani II and 14 MW from Kulekhani III. 

The warning level is 1,527 metres. A siren has been installed to alert residents if the reservoir reaches that level.

Archale records more than 140mm of rain in 24 hours

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology recorded more than 140mm of rainfall at its Archale station in Palpa in the past 24 hours. Meteorologist Rajan Lamichhane said most places in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces received heavy rain during the period, with some areas recording very heavy rainfall.

An earlier DHM measurement put Archale’s 24-hour rainfall at 205.2mm as of 1:15 PM Friday. Rainfall totals are updated as observations continue, so the measurement is tied to its observation time.

Rainfall activity expected to increase in western Nepal

Rainfall activity is expected to increase in western Nepal over the next two days as a low-pressure system over Chhattisgarh and surrounding areas moves towards Nepal, meteorologist Rajan Lamichhane said.

Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces are expected to see more rainfall today and Saturday, while rainfall activity in eastern Nepal is likely to decrease gradually.

The system is expected to continue affecting western Nepal on Sunday. Weather conditions are forecast to improve across the country from Monday, with rainfall activity expected to decline further from Tuesday.

The weather department said it is monitoring the system and will update forecasts and warnings as necessary. It has advised people in areas receiving heavy rain or under warnings to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert to floods, landslides and inundation.

BP Highway to use reconstructed track after rain stops

The BP Highway remains fully blocked at several locations in Kavrepalanchok because of landslides, mud and flooding.

Flooding in the Roshi River has washed away the temporary diversions used to operate traffic along the damaged highway. The Division Road Office, Bhaktapur, said vehicles will be allowed to use the reconstructed old road track once the rain stops.

The road office said it will inspect and repair sections affected by the current rain before allowing traffic to resume. Equipment has been kept on standby to clear possible obstructions.

The Kavrepalanchok section remains subject to a 5 PM to 5 AM restriction through October 2, although authorities may impose daytime closures depending on the flood and landslide situation.

Tribhuvan Highway traffic to operate in scheduled windows

With the Prithvi and Kanti highways disrupted, authorities have introduced scheduled traffic windows on the Tribhuvan Highway between Hetauda and Kathmandu.

On Friday, vehicles travelling from Hetauda towards Kathmandu are allowed between 10 AM and 2 PM, while Kathmandu-bound traffic from Simbhanjyang is allowed from 7 PM to 11 PM. Additional windows have been set for Saturday and Sunday.

Authorities have barred vehicles longer than 10 wheels and those carrying more than 15 tonnes, except fuel and LPG carriers. Passenger buses up to 11 metres long are permitted.

Taplejung hospital restricts staff leave

District Hospital Taplejung has stopped approving staff leave and official travel for seven days, except in essential cases, as part of preparations for possible monsoon-related disasters. The hospital has secured medicines, medical supplies, equipment and fuel and formed an emergency health team that can be deployed when required. Officials said the measures are intended to ensure sufficient personnel and resources are available to maintain health services during a disaster.

Rain and landslides disrupt roads across several districts

Rainfall, floods and landslides have disrupted roads in several parts of the country, according to Nepal Police. The Prithvi Highway remains blocked in both directions at Krishnabhir, Tingrangkhani and Parewabhir in Dhading following landslides and falling rocks. 

The Narayangadh–Muglin road remains closed because of continuing landslides, while the Chame–Besisahar road in Manang is blocked after a landslide at Khotro. The Siddhicharan Highway in Okhaldhunga is also obstructed after a mud-filled flood damaged the road near Bhadare Khola.

Authorities have imposed overnight restrictions on several other roads, including sections of the Rapti and Shahid highways in Dang, the Madan Bhandari Highway in Rolpa, roads across Dolakha and the BP Highway in Sindhuli.

Police have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel on high-risk roads and follow instructions issued by local administrations and security agencies.

Sindhupalchok closes roads overnight

Sindhupalchok has closed all highways and roads to traffic from 8 PM to 5 AM through September 26 because of the increased risk of floods and landslides. The District Administration Office said the decision was based on forecasts of heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in many parts of Bagmati Province.

The administration has urged residents to contact DHM’s 1155, the district emergency operations centre 1234, Nepal Police 100 or the Armed Police Force 1114 in an emergency.

Kanchanpur steps up flood preparedness

Security agencies in Kanchanpur have been placed on alert following forecasts of heavy rainfall.

The Armed Police Force has positioned trained disaster-response personnel and rescue equipment at five locations, including Punarbas, Belauri, Devistan in Dodhara Chandani, Majhgaon in Bhimdatta and Shuklaphanta.

The Nepal Army has also assigned trained teams, boats, vehicles and rescue equipment across the district’s nine local units. A command post has been established at the District Administration Office to monitor the situation and coordinate response.

Authorities have urged residents to remain particularly cautious around the Mahakali, Jogbudha, Machheli and Doda rivers and other flood-prone areas.
No major rain-related damage had been reported in the district at the time of the latest update.

14 families in Dodhara Chandani move belongings to safety

Fourteen families in Patara Khalla of Dodhara Chandani Municipality-3 have moved grain and other belongings to Jamuna Basic School as a precaution against a possible rise in the Jogbudha River. Authorities said there was no immediate threat, but the move was made following forecasts of heavy rainfall. Security agencies and local authorities have coordinated preparations for search, rescue and disaster response.

Flood-displaced families in Nuwakot struggle in tents

Families displaced by the Bhotekoshi–Trishuli floods are facing additional difficulties as rain continues. Rainwater has entered temporary shelters and tents in Nuwakot, damaging food, clothing and other relief supplies. Of the 344 families displaced from Rasuwa and currently staying in different parts of Nuwakot, 142 are living in temporary tents in Banchaautaro, Bidur-5.

The continuing rain has made the ground muddy and increased difficulties for children and older people. The Nepal Red Cross Society’s Nuwakot branch is distributing tarpaulins and improving drainage around temporary shelters. Volunteers are also helping protect belongings from rainwater. Rain has also disrupted efforts to remove debris and recover belongings from structures buried by the earlier flood.

More than 2,100 households in Nuwakot were directly affected and left homeless by the Bhotekoshi–Trishuli flood, while the district administration estimates that more than 2,500 families have been affected when displaced renters and businesses are included.

Dhauliganga dam to open for silt cleaning

The Dhauliganga hydropower project’s dam in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India, is scheduled to be opened from midnight Sunday to 10 AM Monday for silt cleaning. The project operator has informed Nepali authorities that the opening could raise water levels in the Mahakali River.

Authorities in Baitadi have urged people living along the river to remain alert and avoid going near the river during the period. The warning covers the Mahakali corridor from Darchula through Baitadi, Dadeldhura and Kanchanpur.

The dam was also opened in July for silt cleaning.

Flights affected by poor visibility

Domestic flights have been affected by poor visibility and overcast conditions following continuous rainfall since Thursday. 

Buddha Air said flights to Pokhara, Bharatpur and Tumlingtar have been affected by reduced visibility, while mountain flights have also been suspended. Yeti Airlines said flights could be delayed or rescheduled and advised passengers to check the latest flight information through its website or mobile application before leaving for the airport.

The disruption has increased passenger congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport.

Unseasonal snowfall reported near Korala border

Unseasonal snowfall has been reported in the Korala border area of Upper Mustang, at an elevation of about 4,610 metres, following overnight snowfall. The snowfall has affected the movement of containers involved in cross-border trade. Heavy rain has continued around Lomanthang, with intermittent snowfall reported at higher elevations.

Authorities have advised against travelling on roads from Kavre Bhir towards Upper Mustang because of possible disruption from floods, landslides and river erosion. Night-time vehicle movement has been prohibited from 6 PM to 6 AM for four days as a precaution. Gharpajhong Rural Municipality has urged residents along the Kali Gandaki River to remain highly alert as the river level rises.

Rain has also increased the risk to traditional stone-and-mud houses in the area, with residents covering roofs and walls with tarpaulins and plastic to protect them from water.

Rain disrupts Kathmandu Valley waste disposal

Continuous rain over the past two days has disrupted waste disposal in Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s Environment Management Department said muddy water is flowing through the Sisdole landfill site, making waste transportation and final disposal difficult.

The city has urged residents to manage waste at source and not dump it on roads, public spaces, streams, drains or open areas, warning that improperly discarded waste can obstruct roads and drainage.

Waste from 18 local units in the Kathmandu Valley is transported to the landfill in about 200 vehicles a day. Waste collection and transportation are expected to return to normal once conditions at the landfill improve.

Heavy rain disrupts key road links to Kathmandu

Several major road links connecting Kathmandu with the rest of the country have been disrupted by landslides and continuing rainfall, leaving long-distance vehicles stranded in the capital and prompting authorities to impose wider travel restrictions.

The Prithvi Highway, BP Highway and Kanti Lokpath have all been affected, while the Narayangadh–Muglin road has been closed until further notice. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary and long-distance travel as heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast through Sunday.

In Dhading, landslides have blocked the Prithvi Highway at seven locations: Krishna Bhir, Parewabhir, Jamireghat, Jahare, Jabang Khola, Tigrang Khola and Kamere Bhir. The highway is completely blocked in both directions at Krishna Bhir and Tigrang Khola, while vehicles are moving along a single lane at the other five locations.

Two pieces of equipment have been deployed to clear the landslide at Krishna Bhir, but continued rainfall and fresh landslides have hampered the work.

The latest blockage at Krishna Bhir comes less than a month after Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods severely damaged the section. A new 270-metre track had been opened, and the road was brought back into two-way operation only on September 17 after the earlier damage was cleared.

In Kavrepalanchok, landslides have blocked the BP Highway at several locations, including Chowkidanda, Charsaybesi, Gimdi and Mamti. The landslides began early Friday as rainfall continued. The Roshi River at Panauti has also crossed its warning level and is continuing to rise, according to the district administration. The Kavrepalanchok section of the BP Highway is already subject to a night-time travel ban from 5 PM to 5 AM until Sunday. Authorities may impose daytime restrictions as well depending on rainfall, flooding and landslide conditions.

The Kanti Lokpath, another major route connecting Kathmandu with Hetauda, has also been obstructed by landslides at three locations on the Lalitpur side. The Pharping route to Hetauda remains open to smaller vehicles, according to traffic police.

Narayangadh–Muglin, Prithvi Highway closed in Chitwan

The Prithvi Highway and the Narayangadh–Muglin road in Chitwan have been closed until further notice after landslides and continued rainfall. Authorities had initially planned to halt traffic overnight, from 8 PM Thursday to 5 AM Friday. The closure was extended after rainfall continued and landslides occurred at multiple locations.

More than 10,000 vehicles normally use the Narayangadh–Muglin road each day, while more than 14,000 use the Prithvi Highway, according to district authorities. The closures have disrupted long-distance transport in Kathmandu. Most public vehicles at the New Bus Park in Gongabu have remained there since Thursday evening, according to the operator of the bus park. Traffic police have also asked motorists not to stop or park along river corridors in Kathmandu Valley as water levels in several rivers continue to rise.

Karnali halts road transport

Karnali Province has halted vehicular movement on highways and feeder roads in its hill and mountain districts because of the risk of floods and landslides. Only essential vehicles will be allowed on the Kohalpur–Surkhet section depending on road conditions. The affected routes include the Karnali Highway, Karnali Corridor, Madan Bhandari Highway, Pushpalal Mid-Hill Highway and Bheri Corridor.

Around 6,000 police personnel have been placed on standby for disaster response, while additional security personnel can be mobilised if required. A Nepal Army helicopter has also been kept ready for possible rescue and relief operations.

Travel restrictions widen

Authorities in several other districts have imposed night-time restrictions as the weather deteriorates. 

In Khotang, non-essential vehicles have been barred from operating between 7 PM and 5 AM on the Chakevabhanjyang–Jairamghat section of the Mid-Hill Highway. 

Rolpa has prohibited night-time travel on major and local roads from 5 PM to 6 AM, while Rukum East has restricted night-time movement on major highways and inner roads until further notice. 

In Mustang, night-time traffic has been restricted on the Beni–Jomsom–Korala road between 6 PM and 6 AM through September 27 because of the risk of rain, snowfall, floods, landslides and riverbank erosion.

Authorities step up flood preparedness

Local authorities have increased monitoring and public warnings in flood- and landslide-prone areas.

In Kanchanpur, Bhimdatta Municipality has begun public announcements in settlements along the Mahakali River. Authorities have warned residents about possible flooding and inundation and urged people to avoid vulnerable riverbanks.

In Jhapa, the Armed Police Force has increased patrols and surveillance along the Mechi, Kankai, Ratuwa and Biring rivers and around vulnerable settlements, bridges and embankments.

Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City in Dang has activated its emergency operations centre around the clock and formed an integrated rapid-response team involving security personnel, health workers, Red Cross volunteers, ambulance drivers, heavy-equipment operators and local volunteers.

In Baglung, authorities have identified 140 houses and businesses along the Kaligandaki River as being at high risk of floods and landslides.

Farmers warned as crops face damage

The Department of Agriculture has asked farmers to protect standing crops and stored grain from heavy rain and strong winds.

Farmers have been advised to ensure drainage in paddy fields, keep harvested paddy in ventilated places and delay harvesting mature paddy for a few days where possible. Farmers in high-hill areas have been advised to harvest mature maize and keep it under shelter.

The department has also asked farmers to regularly monitor stored food products.

One death reported in Makwanpur

In Makwanpur, a man died after being swept away by the Simat Khola on Thursday evening. Police recovered his body from rocks in the middle of the stream.

The federal health ministry has meanwhile instructed hospitals and health institutions to maintain emergency services and keep medicines and essential health supplies ready in vulnerable areas.

Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly at night, stay away from rivers and landslide-prone areas, and check official weather and road updates before travelling.

4:32 PM, September 24, 2026

Night travel restricted on Prithvi Highway

The District Administration Office, Dhading, has restricted vehicle movement on the Prithvi Highway between 8 pm Thursday and 5 am Friday amid continuous rainfall and the risk of landslides and flooding. The administration has urged travellers and drivers to check weather and road conditions before setting out, avoid vulnerable sections and follow safety instructions from authorities.

The Narayangarh–Muglin road has also been closed overnight because of the risk posed by continuous rainfall and possible landslides. Chitwan Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal said the road would remain closed from 8 pm Thursday to 5 am next day, with conditions to be assessed in the morning before deciding whether the restriction needs to continue.

Major rivers expected to rise over next five days

The Flood Forecasting Division has warned that water levels in major river systems could rise over the next five days as rainfall intensifies.

The Koshi, Narayani, Karnali and Mahakali systems, along with the Kankai, Kamala, Bagmati, East Rapti, West Rapti and Babai, are among those being monitored. The Narayani system includes the Narayani, Trishuli, Budhigandaki, Marsyangdi, Seti and Kali Gandaki rivers.

Authorities have also warned of possible flash floods in smaller rivers and streams, particularly across areas stretching from Taplejung to Kanchanpur.

Rainfall activity expected to increase through Saturday

Meteorologist David Dhakal said rainfall activity is expected to increase through Saturday as moisture-laden air reaches Nepal from a weather system that developed after a low-pressure system from the Bay of Bengal moved inland over India.

Rain has been recorded across Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces over the past 24 hours, with Palpa, Arghakhanchi and Kapilvastu receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall.

Rainfall is expected to intensify on Friday, with heavy snowfall possible in parts of the Himalayan regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki. By Saturday, the rainfall system is expected to shift westward, with heavy snowfall possible in the Himalayan regions of Gandaki, Karnali and Sudurpaschim.

Dhakal said the forecast does not warrant excessive fear but called for continued vigilance and regular weather updates.

Districts step up preparedness

District administrations and local governments across the country have begun strengthening preparedness measures as forecasts warn of heavy rainfall. Rescue teams, heavy equipment, boats and relief materials have been placed on standby in several districts, while authorities are monitoring rivers, landslide-prone roads and settlements vulnerable to inundation.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority is coordinating with government agencies on preparedness, early warning, rescue and response. Authorities have urged people living near rivers and unstable slopes to remain alert and move to safer locations if conditions deteriorate.

Kulekhani reservoir placed under closer watch

The Makwanpur administration has intensified monitoring around the Kulekhani reservoir following forecasts of heavy rainfall. Three sirens have been installed around the reservoir and hydropower area: at the dam, the Sisneri police post and the rural municipality office. 

Kulekhani First Hydropower Centre chief Prahlad Raut said the reservoir’s water level was around 1,522.25 metres, below the first warning level of 1,527 metres. Authorities have established multiple warning levels as the reservoir rises, with additional warnings planned if the dam gates need to be opened. The administration has also urged downstream communities to remain alert.

Koshi Province places road offices on high alert

The Koshi Province government has instructed all 14 district offices under its Ministry of Physical Infrastructure Development to remain on high alert amid the rainfall forecast. Staff, machinery and equipment have been kept ready to respond to damage to roads and other infrastructure. The ministry has also asked local governments and other stakeholders to coordinate rescue and relief operations and to monitor vulnerable roads, bridges and other infrastructure.

Chitwan urges people to avoid unnecessary night travel

The District Administration Office, Chitwan, has urged people to avoid long-distance travel at night unless necessary as heavy rainfall is forecast for the coming days. Travellers have been asked to check road conditions with security agencies or local authorities before leaving. The administration has also warned people living along rivers and in flood-prone areas to relocate if necessary.

Hotels, restaurants, schools and factories located near rivers or other vulnerable areas have been advised to be prepared for possible short-notice closure if conditions worsen.

Jhapa prepares for possible flooding

The Jhapa District Disaster Management Committee has intensified preparations ahead of a forecast spell of heavy rainfall from September 24 to 28. Security personnel have been placed on alert, while rescue equipment, dozers, excavators, loaders, boats, tarpaulins and relief supplies have been kept ready.

Authorities have identified several flood- and inundation-prone areas, including parts of Jhapa Rural Municipality, Gauriganj, Gauradaha, Shivashatakshi and Bhadrapur. The Kankai, Mai, Biring, Ratuwa, Mawa, Ninda and Kamal rivers are being monitored. Nepal Red Cross Jhapa has also prepared sirens and public-address systems and will coordinate relocation to safer areas if necessary.

Kathmandu prepares rescue teams and equipment

Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has activated its disaster-management response mechanism in preparation for heavy rainfall. KMC has prepared six rafting boats, six water pumps and five jet machines, while 200 municipal police personnel have been kept ready for rescue operations.

Eighteen municipal staff will be assigned daily to respond to inundation, while 300 sanitation workers will continue drain and waterway cleaning. Some schools have also been inspected as possible temporary holding centres if evacuation becomes necessary.

Kaski restricts night buses and trekking

The Kaski District Disaster Management Committee has introduced precautionary measures as heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast. Night buses travelling from Kaski to other districts have been stopped from Thursday through Sunday. Authorities have also asked vehicles in rural areas to avoid travel after 4 pm. Trekking has been temporarily banned, with trekkers asked to return through tourism organisations.

Hospitals, the Red Cross, ambulances and health workers have been placed on standby, while helicopter operators have also been alerted. Authorities have urged people to avoid rivers and streams and unnecessary long-distance travel.

Night travel restricted on Besisahar–Chame road

Authorities have restricted night-time vehicle movement on the Lamjung section of the Besisahar–Chame road because of the risk of floods and landslides. Vehicles will not be allowed to operate between 7 pm and 6 am during the restriction period. The administration has urged travellers to follow weather and road-condition updates and avoid unnecessary journeys during periods of heavy rainfall.

Ilam closes two highways at night

The Ilam administration has announced night-time closures on the Mechi Highway and the Mechi Corridor because of the forecast of heavy rainfall. The restrictions will apply from 7 pm to 5 am. Emergency vehicles will be allowed to operate in coordination with nearby security agencies. The administration said the decision was taken because both roads already face risks from poor road conditions and landslides.

The Mechi Highway connects Jhapa with Ilam, Panchthar and Taplejung, while the Mechi Corridor is still under construction.

Authorities urge vigilance as rainfall intensifies

Authorities across the country are urging residents to monitor official weather and disaster warnings as rainfall is expected to intensify over the coming days. People living near rivers, streams and unstable slopes have been advised to remain alert to rising water levels, landslides and other signs of danger. Travellers have been asked to check road conditions before setting out and avoid crossing flooded roads or travelling through landslide-prone areas when conditions deteriorate.