Nepal records highest pre-monsoon rainfall in 45 years

Nepal has recorded its highest pre-monsoon rainfall in 45 years, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), with precipitation levels reaching well above the seasonal average.

The country received 339.7 millimeters of rainfall during the pre-monsoon season, equivalent to 145.5% of the long-term average of 226.3 millimeters, said Sanjiv Adhikari, a meteorologist at the Meteorological Forecasting Division.

The record rainfall was determined through an analysis of data collected from 126 rainfall monitoring stations across Nepal since 1981, making this year's pre-monsoon season the wettest on record during that period.

In the past 24 hours alone, the highest rainfall was recorded at Anarmani-Birta in Jhapa district, where 208 millimeters of rain fell. According to DHM Information Officer Dinkar Kayastha, rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters within a 24-hour period is classified as extremely heavy rainfall.

Jhapa has witnessed continuous rainfall over the past several days. Assistant Chief District Officer Tej Prakash Prasain said localized downpours have occurred in some areas, although authorities have not received reports of major damage or disruptions so far.

The department noted that the monsoon is on the verge of entering Nepal through the eastern region, including Jhapa.

Heavy rainfall was also recorded at several monitoring stations in Ilam, Morang, Sunsari and Sindhuli districts. In western Nepal, stations in Kaski, Lamjung and Gorkha districts also reported significant rainfall. However, meteorologists say this season's rainfall has largely been concentrated in specific areas rather than being widespread across the country.