Eastern Wind Signals Monsoon Near Nepal, Official Entry Yet to Be Declared

As Nepal approaches its average monsoon entry date of June 13, partial influence of eastern winds has started in the country. Meteorologists say eastern wind is considered a sign of the monsoon. However, meteorologist Bibhuti Pokharel of the Meteorological Forecasting Division said the strength of the wind has not yet reached the required level, so it cannot be said that the monsoon has officially entered Nepal. According to her, the influence currently seen could even disappear by tomorrow. She said the monsoon can be declared only after the eastern or monsoon wind meets the required criteria.

The average date for monsoon entry in Nepal is Saturday, June 13. Pokharel said if the monsoon is not declared today or tomorrow, this year’s monsoon may be delayed compared to the average date. According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, Nepal is currently under the partial influence of an upper-air western low-pressure trough, local winds and eastern winds. On Friday morning, Lumbini Province was partly cloudy, while the rest of the provinces were generally cloudy. Light to moderate rain was occurring at some places in Sudurpaschim Province and a few places in Bagmati, Gandaki and Karnali provinces. The division’s 8 am bulletin said that during the day, Koshi, Madhes, Bagmati and Sudurpaschim provinces, along with hilly and mountainous regions, are likely to remain generally cloudy. A few places in these provinces and some hilly and mountainous areas, as well as one or two places in the remaining Tarai region, may receive light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning. Heavy rainfall is also possible at one or two places in Koshi Province.