Kathmandu, December 26: The arrival of a new western low-pressure system is set to bring changes to Nepal's weather patterns, leading to cloud cover, rainfall, and even snowfall in some regions. According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the system is likely to take effect starting Friday night, with its impacts lasting into the weekend.
Senior meteorologist Pratibha Manandhar reported that while Thursday and Friday are expected to remain mostly clear, a fresh western weather system will bring increased cloudiness and rainfall by Friday night. "Light snowfall is anticipated in the hilly areas of Koshi and Gandaki provinces tonight, but widespread rainfall will likely occur in limited areas of Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces starting Saturday," she stated.
The western low-pressure system not only brings much-needed winter rain but also ushers in colder temperatures, commonly referred to as Puse Jhari. This seasonal phenomenon has significant implications for agriculture and water availability, yet it also intensifies winter cold, posing challenges to communities in vulnerable areas.
Yesterday's light rain cleared the skies over Kathmandu, causing the city’s minimum temperature to drop to 7.5°C today, with maximum temperatures ranging between 16°C and 18°C. The division noted that further dips in minimum temperatures are expected on Thursday and Friday. While cloud cover tends to keep nighttime temperatures steady, clear skies often result in colder mornings and nights.
January, typically the coldest month of the year, is expected to see more frequent cold spells. However, gradual warming will begin from the second and third weeks of Magh, as days grow longer and temperatures rise slightly.
This shift in weather conditions highlights the dual impact of winter rainfall in Nepal: while beneficial for ecosystems and water resources, it also exacerbates winter hardships for rural and urban communities. As the western weather system unfolds, its effects will remind us of the delicate balance between environmental processes and human resilience.
For Ecosphere News, this is a timely reminder of how environmental dynamics shape daily lives, emphasizing the need for preparedness and sustainable practices to adapt to seasonal changes.
