Extreme weather conditions have gripped parts of Nepal over the last 48 hours, with severe windstorms causing significant property damage in the hills while the capital struggles with deteriorating air quality.
Thaha Municipality: Millions in Losses
Significant property damage exceeding Rs 1.9 million has been reported in Majhgaun, Thaha Municipality-9, following intense rainfall and powerful winds on Friday and Saturday. According to the Bagmati Province Police Office, at least ten families have seen their livelihoods impacted.
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Impact on Homes: Multiple residential structures and cattle sheds had their corrugated roofing sheets, timber, and windows destroyed.
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Agricultural Loss: Significant quantities of stored crops, including wheat, paddy, and maize, were ruined by the rain.
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Key Casualties: Local resident Karn Balami incurred the highest individual loss, estimated at Rs 1.2 million, after two of his houses were severely damaged.
Bhojpur: Infrastructure and Connectivity Hit
In eastern Nepal, the district of Bhojpur is reeling from a massive storm that struck Saturday evening, disrupting essential services and transportation.
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Road Blockages: A flash flood at Chalse Kholsa washed away a bridge, completely obstructing the Bhojpur-Chakhewa section of the Mid-Hill Highway. While one-way traffic for small vehicles resumed after 23 hours, heavy vehicle movement remains restricted.
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Power Outages: Electricity services across the district have been interrupted due to damage to the 33 kV national transmission line and local hydropower projects.
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Institutional Damage: High winds reportedly blew away the roof of the Armed Police Force (APF) No. 5 headquarters barrack at Kotdanda, leaving personnel with limited accommodation.
Kathmandu: Haze and Health Warnings
While the capital escaped the physical destruction seen elsewhere, residents are facing a silent crisis. On Monday afternoon, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 163, classified as “Unhealthy.”
Heavy haze has settled over the valley, reducing visibility and prompting health officials to advise vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions—to avoid prolonged outdoor activity. The current “mostly cloudy” conditions are expected to give way to light rain later tonight, which may offer temporary relief from the lingering pollutants.
Outlook
The Meteorological Forecasting Division (MFD) warns that westerly winds and local low-pressure systems near eastern Nepal will continue to trigger thundershowers and gusty winds in the Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces over the next 24 hours.