Nepal's Monsoon 2026 Has Arrived — and It's Going to Be a Strange One. Here's How to Prepare.

The monsoon arrived in Nepal on June 1, almost exactly on its usual date. But arriving on time is where the normal part of this season ends.

Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast below-average rainfall for most of the country between June and September. At the same time, temperatures are expected to stay above normal throughout the season. Less rain, more heat — not the combination farmers were hoping for.

The areas facing the highest chance of a dry monsoon are the southern parts of Karnali Province, almost all of Lumbini Province, eastern Madhesh and southern Koshi. These regions carry a 55 to 65 percent probability of below-normal rainfall. They are also, not coincidentally, the parts of Nepal that grow most of the country's rice.

This matters more than it might sound. The last time Nepal had a weak monsoon during the planting season, in 2021, national rice production dropped by around nine percent. A repeat in 2026 would push up food prices and hit rural incomes at a time when households are already stretched.

So what should you actually do?

If you farm, this is the season to be careful with water. Store it where you can. Check your irrigation before you rely on it. Talk to your local agriculture office about drought-resistant planting strategies — the early decisions matter most.

If you live in Kathmandu, do not be fooled by the heavy pre-monsoon storms the valley has already seen this year. A wet May does not guarantee a wet July. Keep drains around your home clear regardless, because when the rain does come in the hills, it comes hard and fast.

And if you live in or travel through landslide-prone areas — much of Nepal's mid-hills and mountain roads — stay alert. Even a below-average monsoon produces intense bursts of rain that trigger landslides on saturated, unstable slopes. The Narayangadh-Mugling road, the Prithvi Highway and several routes in the eastern hills are worth checking before you travel during heavy rain.

The DHM updates its forecasts as the season develops. Check dhm.gov.np regularly, and follow official weather warnings rather than social media rumours.

The monsoon is here. It will be drier than usual and hotter than usual. Plan for both.