Cyclone Arnab: Heavy Rainfall and Snowfall Expected Across Nepal as Storm Hits India

Nepal could experience widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and snowfall in the Himalayan region following the reported landfall of Cyclone Arnab along India's Andhra Pradesh coast, according to information attributed to Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.

The weather system, which developed over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to influence weather conditions across several provinces of Nepal. Meteorologists have warned of the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, while snowfall is possible in higher Himalayan regions.

The changing weather conditions could affect agriculture, trekking, mountaineering, tourism, road transportation and air travel in different parts of the country.

Cyclone Arnab's Effects Begin to Appear in Nepal

Meteorologist Binu Maharjan of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology said the effects of the weather system had already begun to appear in parts of Nepal.

According to the supplied report, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces experienced partial cloud cover, while light rainfall was recorded at one or two locations in Lumbini Province.

The cyclone reportedly made landfall along the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Yanam before gradually moving northwestward. The system is forecast in the supplied report to weaken as it approaches areas near Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Although the cyclone is expected to weaken as it moves inland, its associated moisture could contribute to rainfall and snowfall across parts of Nepal.

Heavy Rainfall Forecast Across Several Provinces

Nepal's weather conditions could become increasingly unsettled through Saturday, with rainfall expected across many hilly and mountainous areas.

According to the supplied forecast, moderate rainfall is possible in many hilly areas of Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.

Some locations in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces could experience heavy rainfall, with very heavy rainfall possible at one or two locations.

Parts of Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces may also experience thunderstorms, lightning and hail alongside rainfall.

The intensity and distribution of precipitation may vary by location. Residents are advised to follow official weather bulletins for the latest local forecasts and warnings.

Snowfall Possible in Himalayan Regions

The weather system could also bring snowfall to higher elevations, particularly in Himalayan areas.

Unfavourable weather conditions may create additional challenges for trekkers, mountaineers and tourists travelling through high-altitude destinations.

Reduced visibility, wet trails, snowfall and rapidly changing weather can increase travel risks in mountainous terrain. Visitors planning trips to remote areas should monitor weather updates and follow advice from local authorities, guides and tourism operators.

Travellers already in affected locations should consider delaying exposed mountain journeys until conditions improve.

Farmers Urged to Take Precautions During Paddy Harvest

The expected rainfall could disrupt agricultural activities, particularly for farmers harvesting paddy.

Rain during harvesting can complicate cutting, drying and storing crops, potentially affecting the quality of harvested produce.

Meteorologist Maharjan has advised farmers to plan their activities according to the latest weather forecasts and take precautions where possible.

Farmers should monitor local conditions, make use of suitable dry periods and protect harvested crops from rain when practical.

Floods, Landslides and Transport Disruptions Possible

Heavy rainfall can increase the risk of flooding, landslides and road blockages, particularly in vulnerable locations and areas with saturated soil.

The expected weather conditions could also affect domestic flights and road travel, especially in hilly and mountainous districts where visibility and terrain conditions can change quickly.

Residents in flood-prone areas and communities near rivers and landslide-prone slopes should remain alert to official warnings.

Authorities, transport operators and emergency response agencies have been urged in the supplied report to make necessary preparations for potential disruptions.

Public Advised to Follow Official Weather Updates

As the weather system develops, the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology is expected to provide further information about rainfall, snowfall and possible weather-related hazards.

Residents are advised to check official forecasts before travelling, avoid crossing flooded rivers and exercise caution near unstable slopes during periods of heavy rain.

Trekkers and mountaineers should consult local authorities and experienced guides before continuing journeys in exposed or high-altitude areas.

The situation may change as the system weakens and moves inland, making updated forecasts important for communities and travellers across Nepal.

The reported landfall of Cyclone Arnab in India could contribute to unsettled weather across Nepal, including rainfall, thunderstorms and snowfall in higher Himalayan regions.

With heavy to very heavy rainfall possible in some locations, the potential risks include flooding, landslides, agricultural disruption and delays to road and air transport.

Residents, farmers and travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions and follow the latest official updates from Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.