Where in Nepal Is Rainfall Making a Difference — and Where Isn’t It?

After a long dry spell, light to moderate rain over the last two days has brought some relief to people in Nepal. Since Nepal is mainly an agricultural country, this rain has made many people hopeful. Weather experts have also predicted rain for the next three days.

However, will this rain be enough to solve problems like drought, dry weather, and air pollution?

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, it’s unlikely that these issues will be fixed right away.

Spokesperson Vibhuti Pokhrel from the department said that although there might be rain in the hilly regions over the next few days, there won’t be much improvement in the overall weather across the country. She has requested people to stay updated with weather news and take necessary precautions.

Rainfall Still Very Low in Nepal

According to the department, rainfall across Nepal has been very low in the past few months. Temperatures have also been higher than average, making the air dry. Because of this, air pollution has become more dangerous.

According to IQAir, a Swiss organization that tracks global air quality in real time, Kathmandu was ranked the most polluted city in the world as of yesterday.

Today, because of the rain, the air quality has improved slightly. As of 4 a.m. this morning, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was 177, which falls under the “unhealthy” category.

The AQI scale approved by the Nepal government says:

• 0–50 is good
• 51–100 is moderate
• 101–150 is unhealthy for sensitive groups
• 151–200 is unhealthy
• 201–300 is very unhealthy
• 301+ is hazardous

So, even with today’s improvement, the air is still not safe to breathe.

Spokesperson Pokhrel mentioned that the lack of rain over a long period is one of the main reasons for the rising pollution levels.

Less Rain and Higher Temperatures in Recent Months

According to department records:

• During the post-monsoon season (October to November 2024), rainfall was 19.6% less than normal, and temperatures were 0.7°C higher.
• In the winter season (December 2024 to February 2025), rainfall dropped by 79.4%, and temperatures were 0.5°C higher than average.
• In March 2025, rainfall was 29.5% lower, and the average temperature was 0.8°C higher.

On March 22 and 23, there was some light to moderate rain, but it wasn’t enough. Also, the western winds were weak, and temperatures rose, making the air drier.

Dry weather and fog have reduced air clarity and made pollution worse.

April Expected to Stay Dry

Spokesperson Pokhrel said that April is also likely to have less rain. The average expected rainfall for April is about 58.7 mm or even less.

The department has issued a notice asking everyone to stay updated on weather forecasts and remain careful, as no major improvements are expected in the country’s weather conditions.