Monsoon preparedness: Key messages for reducing the risk from monsoon-related hazards in Nepal

These messages are adapted from an earlier set of key messages for reducing landslide risk in the aftermath of the 2015 Gorkha earthquake. They have been modified based on our experience and learning in the Sajag-Nepal project around (1) the evolution of the hazard and (2) experience, understanding, and small-scale adaptation measures within affected communities. The messages are divided into three themes:

– be aware of the hazard

– be observant of your surroundings during the monsoon, and

– take actions to be safe

Be Aware

1. More than 90% of all fatal landslides and debris flows in Nepal happen during the monsoon, with the peak in landslide activity happening within 4-6 weeks of the start of the monsoon. While fatal landslides are much more likely to occur during the monsoon, they can happen at any time of year.

2. Landslides are often, but not always, triggered by long-lasting or intense rain. Landslides can occur even after rainfall has stopped, so you should remain vigilant for at least 2-3 days after a rainstorm.

3. Landslides and debris flows most commonly occur in places where they have happened before. Learn to recognise the signs of past landslides and debris flows: areas of bare ground where vegetation and soil has been removed, piles of large boulders on hillsides or in river channels, and loose debris.

4. Landslide debris commonly flows down steep rivers and seasonal stream channels, and so these areas are extremely dangerous and should be avoided as much as possible, especially during and after rainfall.

Be Observant

5. Unusual noises, smells, or sights can all indicate a landslide or debris flow. Be alert to unexpected and sudden rumbling sounds, vibrations, clouds of dust, or the smell of mud.

6. Pay attention to changes in the landscape that can indicate future landslides or debris flows: new cracks in land, trails or roads, slumping of the ground, changes to the colour or amount of spring flow, streams that appear or disappear, tilting trees or walls, and small stones falling for no apparent reason. If you see these warnings, minimise the time that you spend in those areas, and share your observations with the ward chair and the security forces.

Be Safe

7. Minimise the time that you spend in places that are prone to landslides and debris flows – especially under cliffs and in steep river channels or gullies. Be cautious and alert when grazing animals or gathering fodder in those places.

8. If you see a landslide or debris flow, or you suspect that one might occur, move to an open space and away from river channels and gullies as quickly as possible, alert others, and wait for the warning signs to stop.

9. If you see a landslide or debris flow, or you suspect that one might occur, make every effort to warn other people who are downhill or downstream. Whistling, shouting, or telephone calls could save lives.

10. Have an emergency bag ready for your family, to prepare for landslides and debris flows, floods, and earthquakes. This should contain essential items that you will need: a torch and batteries, a small radio, enough dry food such as beaten rice or instant noodles for one day, a plastic bottle of drinking water, a bottle of chlorine drops for purifying more drinking water, a basic medical kit, and photocopies of important documents such as your ID cards.

11. Carry a whistle on your person at all times to alert someone if you are injured and cannot shout for help or are buried under debris. Whistles save lives.

12. Maintain traditional approaches to preparing for the monsoon. For example, clean and repair drainage and seasonal stream channels around villages, especially above and below settlements, to prevent gully erosion and landslides.

13. Always know how to contact emergency services: Police 100, Ambulance 102

14. Prepare a monsoon plan with your family before the start of the monsoon. Agree on a meeting point outside your home in a safe open space, away from unstable slopes, cliff edges, and rivers, purchase spare food, and talk with your neighbours about hazards in your area. If you don’t know where the nearest safe open space is, ask your ward chair or palika representative. 15. Educate yourself about the monsoon preparedness plan for your ward. If you don’t know about the plan, ask your ward chair.