Kathmandu: Weather conditions across the country have changed due to the partial influence of westerly winds, according to the Hydrology and Meteorology Forecasting Division. Fog is expected to prevail in most parts of the Terai today, while the hilly and mountainous regions, including Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, are likely to remain partly cloudy.

The division has also forecast the possibility of light rain and snowfall at one or two places in the high hilly and mountainous areas of Koshi, Gandaki and Karnali provinces. People have been urged to remain cautious as fog and mist may affect air and land transportation, particularly in the Terai region.

In the Kathmandu Valley, the minimum temperature this morning is estimated at around 5 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature is expected to range between 17 and 18 degrees Celsius.

Cold Wave Forces School Closures in Birgunj
Amid the continuing cold wave, Birgunj Metropolitan City in Parsa has decided to close schools for the third time. With cold conditions persisting for nearly two weeks, the metropolis has announced an additional three-day school closure from December 16 to 18.

According to Anand Lamichhane, Chief of the Metropolitan Educational Administration Division, the decision was taken considering the possible adverse impact of the cold on children’s health. Community and institutional schools have been given leave that will be adjusted from the rainy season vacation. Schools are scheduled to resume from December 20.

Traffic Difficulties on Narayanghat–Butwal Road
Meanwhile, traffic movement has become increasingly difficult in the Daunne area of the Narayanghat–Butwal road section, which is currently under construction. The extreme cold wave has made road surfaces slippery, raising the risk of accidents.

The Project Directorate under the Road Department has advised travelers to remain highly alert and to use alternative routes where possible. Ongoing culvert construction and slope works have restricted vehicle movement to single lanes at several points.

Citing adverse weather conditions and construction-related challenges, the project has warned of potential delays and complications in traffic flow. Travelers have been requested to seek updated information on road conditions before using this section until the weather improves.