KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki’s private secretariat has issued a warning of heavy rainfall and flood risks across five provinces from October 3 to 6, urging people to remain on high alert.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast active monsoon activity in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces, with the possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in several places.

The secretariat has requested that pregnant women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and critically ill individuals be moved to safe areas.

Security agencies and disaster management bodies have been directed to remain fully prepared for rescue and relief operations.

Water levels in the Narayani, Bagmati, Kamala, and Koshi rivers, as well as their tributaries, are expected to rise and could approach danger levels.

There is also a high risk of sudden floods and flashfloods in smaller rivers flowing through the Mahabharat and Chure ranges in Madhesh Province.

Districts including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Rasuwa, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, and Rautahat face possible inundation and sudden surges.

Residents in these areas have been urged to remain cautious and avoid risky travel.

The secretariat has further appealed to the public to follow official notices and instructions.

In addition, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, provincial and district disaster management committees, local governments, and related bodies have been instructed to ensure effective preparedness, response, search and rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts.