KATHMANDU: Farmers are excited with the arrival of winter rains after a long drought. They are happy as most of the country received sporadic and moderate rains since last night, which is expected to boost the current crops and make the soil fertile for new crops.

According to Weather Forecasting Division, due to a low-pressure system, most parts of Sudurpaschim, Karnali, Lumbini and Gandaki provinces have received rain. Snowfall has also occurred in the mountainous regions.

Deputy Director General of the Department of Agriculture Rajendra Koirala says that the rains that have fallen in various parts of the country will be like nectar for winter crops. He says that the rain without hail will strengthen the mustard seeds currently cultivated and increase wheat production.

Along with this, new leaves will grow on fruits and plants after the winter rains, which will contribute to increasing production next year. The snowfall in the mountainous region along with the rains will increase the production of food and cash crops including apples.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has stated that the highest rainfall of 43 mm was recorded at the Khanikhola Hydrometer Station in Surkhet in the last 24 hours. Most places in Karnali and Lumbini provinces and moderate rainfall has occurred in the mountainous regions of Gandaki province.

Similarly, while there was only light rainfall in the lower regions of Gandaki province, the system is currently causing rain around the Kathmandu Valley of Bagmati province. The department has said that this system is weakening and moving northeastward. Koshi Province is expected to have a moderate impact and light snowfall is expected in the northern regions.