Long-Term Weather Data Suggests Clear Conditions During Nepal’s Election Period

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Long-Term Weather Data Suggests Clear Conditions During Nepal’s Election Period

Long-Term Weather Data Suggests Clear Conditions During Nepal’s Election Period

Ganesh Khatiwada 2026-02-08 13:45:00

Kathmandu, Nepal - As concerns grow over possible weather disruptions during Nepal’s upcoming House of Representatives election, long-term meteorological data offers reassurance. An analysis of 30 years of weather records indicates that conditions between Falgun 20 and 22 (early March) have consistently remained clear, easing fears that adverse weather could affect voting, particularly in the country’s Himalayan districts.
The findings were submitted to the Election Commission of Nepal by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) amid public debate on whether unpredictable mountain weather might hinder the election scheduled for Falgun 21. The concern was especially focused on high-altitude regions, where snowfall or extreme weather can disrupt transportation and polling logistics.
According to the Commission, the request for meteorological assessment followed rising calls to consider postponing the election in vulnerable regions. However, due to technical limitations, the DHM can currently issue accurate forecasts only up to one week in advance, making short-term predictions for the election date unavailable at this stage.
To address the uncertainty, the Department examined three decades of historical data. The analysis revealed no significant weather disturbances—such as rainfall or snowfall—during the specified dates in any of the reviewed years. Election Commission spokesperson Narayan Bhattarai stated that the data shows the period is typically dry and stable, leading the Commission to expect that weather will not pose a major obstacle to the electoral process.
Despite the encouraging outlook, the Commission has emphasized that it will continue to monitor weekly weather updates until election day and remain prepared to respond to any unexpected changes.
Meanwhile, the Government of Nepal has urged media outlets and stakeholders to avoid spreading speculation about postponing the election based on hypothetical weather scenarios, cautioning that such rumors could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
In a related development, the Election Commission also addressed ongoing concerns regarding violations of the election code of conduct. During a press briefing, the Commission confirmed that explanations had been sought from 34 political parties and candidates following complaints. So far, 24 parties and candidates have submitted their responses. The Commission has not disclosed the identities involved, stating that all explanations will be reviewed and published collectively after a thorough assessment.
The Commission reiterated that it is taking code-of-conduct violations seriously and clarified that the review process requires time, as legal responses vary depending on the nature and severity of each case. Officials also noted that recent provisions allowing complaints to be handled and resolved at the district level have reduced the number of cases reaching the central office.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparent and orderly elections, the Election Commission has called on all political actors to strictly adhere to electoral laws and conduct standards as Nepal prepares for the upcoming vote.