The arrival of the monsoon in Nepal is expected to be delayed by a few more days this year. Although the monsoon season typically begins around June 13, it has not yet entered the country.

According to Bibhuti Pokharel, spokesperson for the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), satellite observations and numerical weather forecasting models indicate that the monsoon onset is likely to be delayed beyond its average arrival date.

At present, moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is occurring in parts of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces, as well as in several hilly and mountainous regions. However, meteorologists say this rainfall is not associated with the monsoon system but rather with local weather patterns and western disturbances.

Experts have pointed to the development of El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean as a major factor affecting the timing of the monsoon. The phenomenon is expected to strengthen further, potentially delaying monsoon onset and reducing seasonal rainfall across South Asia, including Nepal.

Historical records show that Nepal has experienced delayed monsoon arrivals in several years, including 1972, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2009, 2016, 2019, and 2023.

Meteorologists continue to monitor weather patterns closely and will provide updates as conditions evolve.