Cyclone Arnab: High alert for Kartik 12-14, heavy rain and snowfall risk in 5 provinces

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has urged the public to remain on high alert from Kartik 12 to 14 due to Cyclone Arnab, which has formed in the Bay of Bengal. According to a special bulletin from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the cyclone is moving west-northwest, growing stronger, and is expected to make landfall on the coast of India's Andhra Pradesh.

The authority said weather in Nepal could deteriorate from Thursday night, Kartik 12. On Kartik 13 and 14, Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces will be the most affected, with thunderbolts and strong winds likely in many places along with moderate rain, and heavy rain in some areas.

Some parts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim are expected to see moderate rain, with heavy rain possible in a few places. A high risk of blizzards and avalanches alongside heavy snowfall in the mountains and high hills has been flagged.

Senior meteorologist and department spokesperson Bibhuti Pokharel said this system is even larger than the monsoon system that hit in Asoj. However, she said there is no need to panic just yet.