Kathmandu: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast that Nepal will receive above-average rainfall across the country during this year's monsoon season. However, the department has dismissed recent media reports claiming that Nepal is set to experience "the heaviest rainfall in 30 to 40 years" as inaccurate and misleading.

Speaking at a meeting of the Agriculture, Cooperatives, and Natural Resources Committee held at Singha Durbar on Thursday, Department Director Kamal Raj Joshi said that the country should be prepared for increased rainfall this monsoon. He clarified that while the rainfall is expected to be more than average, it does not mark a historic record as some reports have suggested.

According to Joshi, there is a 55 to 65 percent probability of above-average rainfall in Gandaki Province, the northeastern part of Lumbini Province, and the western part of Karnali Province. In the remaining regions of the country, the chances of receiving above-average rainfall range from 45 to 55 percent.

He stated that the average annual rainfall in Nepal is 1,498.4 millimeters. Last year, the country received 1,691.3 millimeters, which was 113 percent of the national average. Joshi said there is a strong possibility that this year's rainfall will surpass even that figure.

The department also highlighted significant changes in rainfall patterns due to climate change. Unlike the past when light rain would occur throughout the day, recent monsoons have seen intense downpours over a few hours, followed by dry spells lasting two to four days. This shift in the monsoon pattern, commonly referred to as the "monsoon break," poses new challenges for disaster preparedness.

In light of the forecast and changing weather patterns, the department urged all concerned agencies and the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks such as floods and landslides during the monsoon period.