The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night, until Monday, as heavy monsoon rains are expected across several provinces.

The authority called on residents of landslide-prone and riverside settlements to remain on high alert, identify safe high grounds, and prepare to move if necessary. District disaster management committees have been asked to regulate or restrict vehicle movement depending on road and weather conditions.

The authority also appealed to all three security agencies, local units, volunteers, and other stakeholders to remain on standby for immediate response.

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, monsoon winds have become active after a low-pressure system developed in the Bay of Bengal and entered land through Odisha, India, before gradually moving into central India. This has led to rainfall in the Kathmandu Valley and other parts of the country since early Thursday morning.

The department said that many people travel during the Dashain festival, and has called for special precautions over the next four days. Heavy rainfall is likely, especially in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces.

The department has warned of sudden increases in water levels in small rivers of Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Rasuwa, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, Rautahat, and neighbouring districts. Based on current analysis, significant rises are also expected in the Narayani, Bagmati, Kamala, and Koshi rivers and their tributaries, with levels possibly reaching danger marks. In addition, flash floods may occur in small rivers and streams flowing from the Mahabharat and Chure ranges in Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Madhesh provinces.

The department noted that the monsoon has not yet withdrawn from Nepal and said it is closely monitoring weather patterns and potential flood risks.