Kathmandu: With Nepal in the middle of the paddy planting season, concerns are growing over below-normal rainfall, raising fears that delayed monsoon showers could affect rice production across the country.

Many farming areas are still waiting for sustained rainfall, making it difficult for farmers to prepare fields and transplant paddy seedlings. Agriculture experts warn that prolonged dry conditions during this critical period could reduce crop yields if the monsoon does not become more active soon.

Monsoon Yet to Cover the Entire Country
According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, monsoon winds are currently influencing the whole of Koshi, Madhesh and Bagmati provinces, parts of Gandaki Province, and eastern Lumbini Province. The remaining parts of the country continue to experience the partial influence of westerly and local wind systems.

At present, the weather is generally cloudy over the country's hilly and mountainous regions, while the Terai remains partly cloudy. Isolated thunderstorms and lightning have been reported in some hilly areas of Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces.

Rain Expected Only in Some Areas
The weather forecast indicates generally cloudy conditions across the hills and mountains during the afternoon, with moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning expected in some locations. High Himalayan regions may also receive light snowfall.

Moderate rainfall is also likely in parts of Koshi and Madhesh provinces, while only isolated showers are forecast for the Terai of Bagmati and Gandaki provinces.

However, much of the Terai in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces is expected to remain largely dry, with mainly clear skies.

Heatwave Conditions Persist in Western Terai
The department has warned that hot winds and rising temperatures are likely to continue in parts of Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces. Temperatures are also expected to rise in some areas of the Terai in Bagmati and Gandaki provinces.

Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious, limit exposure to extreme heat where possible, and stay informed through official weather updates.

Night Forecast
Tonight, cloudy conditions are expected to continue across the hilly and mountainous regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces, along with parts of Koshi's Terai and Madhesh Province.

Moderate rain with thunder and lightning is forecast in several hilly areas, while isolated rainfall is also possible in parts of Lumbini Province. Much of the Terai in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim is expected to remain mostly clear.

Agriculture Faces a Critical Period
Rice is Nepal's principal staple crop, and timely monsoon rainfall is crucial for successful transplantation and healthy crop development. If widespread rainfall does not arrive soon, farmers may face delays in planting, increased irrigation costs, and the risk of lower paddy production during the current agricultural season.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has urged the public, especially farmers and communities in heat-affected areas, to remain alert and regularly follow official weather advisories.