KATHMANDU: Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has issued an urgent public advisory warning of heavy rainfall, snowfall and powerful windstorms across several parts of the country on Friday and Saturday, urging residents and travellers to exercise extreme caution.

The warning, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs authority and based on forecasts from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, covers a wide swathe of the country during what is also the pre-monsoon season — a period that historically brings heightened risk of sudden and severe weather events.

What to expect and where
Heavy rain and snowfall are forecast for Friday afternoon across many areas of Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, with some locations in Gandaki, Lumbini and Koshi provinces' hill and Himalayan zones also likely to see moderate rain, hail, lightning and snowfall. Low-lying Terai areas of Bagmati, Madhesh and Koshi provinces may also experience scattered rainfall.

Of particular concern are wind speeds of up to 119 kilometres per hour forecast for parts of Lumbini province — including Dang and Nepalgunj — from Friday, extending to districts around Biratnagar, Dhankuta and Dharan in the eastern region on Saturday. At such speeds, authorities warn of falling trees, structural damage, flying rooftops and disruption to electricity and communications infrastructure. Recent windstorm incidents have already resulted in deaths and injuries across the country.

Safety instructions
NDRRMA has issued the following guidance to residents and travellers in affected areas:

Avoid all non-essential travel during the warning period. Those already on the road should pull over and shelter in a safe location. Keep doors and windows firmly shut during windstorms and extinguish all sources of fire. In crowded areas, remain calm and move steadily to safety without panic.

During storms, stay clear of weak structures, tall trees, telephone poles, electricity pylons and overhead wires. Do not touch fallen or dangling electrical cables and avoid using electrical appliances during the storm. Do not remain in or near high-risk locations.

For travellers and trekkers
The advisory carries particular relevance for tourists and trekkers active in Nepal's hill and Himalayan regions this time of year. Those planning treks or outdoor activities in Karnali, Sudurpaschim, Gandaki and Koshi provinces over the coming days are strongly advised to monitor weather updates closely and follow the guidance of local authorities and expedition operators.

NDRRMA has urged all citizens and visitors to regularly follow weather forecasts issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and advisories from the authority itself.