The Independent Power Producers’ Association Nepal (IPPAN) has urged all hydropower projects to remain on high alert for the next few days due to forecasts of heavy rainfall across the country.

Citing the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), IPPAN said intense rain is expected on July 18, 19 and 20, which could raise river levels above danger marks. In a statement, IPPAN called on all operational and under-construction projects to adopt precautionary measures to minimize potential human and physical losses.

“Following our early warning information-sharing agreement with the department, we have been receiving regular updates to ensure preparedness,” IPPAN stated, adding that heavy rainfall is forecast in eastern Nepal from the evening of July 18 to the morning of July 19.

The DHM has identified a high risk of flooding in rivers such as the Koshi, Tamor, Arun, Tamakoshi, Dudhkoshi and Kankai. The Koshi River may reach or exceed alert levels. The weather system active in eastern Nepal is expected to move westward in the coming days.

Flooding in the Bagmati River could affect Kathmandu Valley and lower surrounding areas on the evening of July 19, while the Mahakali River and its banks face high flood risk until midday on July 20.

Central districts including Baglung, Myagdi, Parbat, Syangja, Palpa, Nawalparasi, and Rupandehi are also likely to be affected, impacting the Narayani River basin. Moderate impacts are expected in the Rapti and Babai river areas, while heightened alert is advised in the Mahakali region from the evening of July 19.

IPPAN urged all hydropower projects to take advance precautions, recalling the July 8 Bhote Koshi flood that severely damaged over half a dozen projects in Rasuwa and Nuwakot. It also noted that past floods and landslides have claimed lives of workers and caused long-term power disruptions, urging preparedness to prevent a repeat of such disasters.