Jumla: As temperatures plunge below zero degrees Celsius in Jumla, residents are grappling with the adverse effects on their daily lives. The severe cold has made it challenging for locals to venture outside during morning and evening hours.

Sarita Neupane, a resident of Chandannath Municipality-4, highlighted the difficulties faced by the community due to the sub-zero temperatures, making routine activities a struggle.

The plummeting temperatures have also led to an increase in patients seeking medical attention for cold-related complications. Pujan Rokaya, Director of the Karnali Institute of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, reported a rise in the number of individuals presenting symptoms related to the cold weather.

Health centers in the region are witnessing a surge in patients suffering from cold-related illnesses, including asthma and cold diarrhea. More than 200 patients are seeking treatment at these centers daily. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women, are particularly affected by the intensifying cold, according to Kamal Rawat, Chief of Raralihi Health Post in Tila Rural Municipality.

The Weather Forecast Field Office in Jumla reported a minimum temperature of -2.6 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 15.6 degrees Celsius in the district, emphasizing the severity of the cold wave.