El Niño yet to make an impact on monsoon
Summary
Nepal has received 92.1 percent of its normal rainfall so far this monsoon, with the biggest shortfalls in Madhes and the Tarai belt of Koshi Province. Experts say El Niño’s impact has been limited so far, though rainfall may decline further after mid-August.
Key Points
- The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology’s 2026 monsoon outlook predicted below-normal rainfall in parts of southern and western Nepal, with El Niño expected to affect the season.
- As of August 6, Nepal had received 611.5 mm of rainfall, or 92.1 percent of the historical average for the period.
- Madhes Province and the Tarai belt of Koshi Province recorded the lowest rainfall, while some hill and mountain areas saw heavy localized downpours.
- Experts said El Niño has so far had a relatively limited impact on the monsoon, but the final assessment will only be possible after the season ends.
