KATHMANDU: Nepal faces a heightened risk of heavy rain, lightning, and snowfall due to the influence of cyclone Arnab, which is developing in the Bay of Bengal.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has issued an alert, urging citizens to remain vigilant on Oct. 29 and 30.
According to NDRRMA spokesperson Rambahadur KC, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecasted that the impact of the cyclone is expected to reach Nepal starting Friday, Oct. 30.
The weather system is likely to bring moderate rainfall to many areas across Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, with heavy rainfall expected in some locations. Parts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces are also likely to experience rain.
The authority has warned of a high risk of heavy snowfall, blizzards, and avalanches in high-hilly and mountainous regions. To avoid potential disasters, the NDRRMA has advised the public to avoid traveling to high-altitude areas, refrain from non-essential travel, and stay away from riverbanks and areas prone to flooding.
Officials have urged the public to monitor weather forecasts and official warnings regularly and to move to safer locations if signs of danger appear.
In case of emergencies, the public can contact 1155 for weather updates, 1234 for disaster assistance, 100 for Nepal Police, and 1144 for Tourist Police, spokesperson KC stated.
