Widespread forest fires ravage Mahottari, Nepal
Rapidly spreading forest fires burned across Mahottari, Nepal, until April 9, 2025, impacting forests and threatening nearby settlements. As of April 10, the fires along major routes, such as the East-West Highway, have been largely extinguished.
Forest fires in Nepal on April 6, 2025. Image Credit: NASA FIRMS
Forest fires remained active in Nepal’s Mahottari District until April 9, 2025, particularly along the East-West Highway, Chure Mountain Range, and BP Highway. Affected areas included Bardibas and Gaushala municipalities, with approximately 16 000 ha (39 540 acres) of forest at risk.
The fires, fueled by dry leaves on the forest floor, occurred daily and spread rapidly through the region. Mature trees were destroyed, and the growth of new vegetation was disrupted.
Residents in fire-prone areas such as Bardibas-5 reported living in fear as flames approached their homes. An 80-year-old resident stated they had been unable to sleep due to the ongoing threat.
Local social worker Hom Bahadur Khadka from Patu described the damage as extensive.
Nepal previously experienced major forest fires in 2012 and 2009. The current fires occurred during the dry season in April, when such incidents are more frequent.
A satellite-based monitoring system operated by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Nepal’s Department of Forests tracked the fire activity. However, containment efforts appeared limited.
Concerns were also raised about possible impacts on air quality. Similar fires in 2021 caused widespread haze across central Nepal, and indications suggested that this year could experience similar effects.
As of April 10, significant rainfall across the region has helped extinguish most of the fires, bringing relief to affected communities and reducing the immediate threat to forests and nearby settlements.
References:
1 Forest fires widespread in Mahottari – Rising Nepal Daily – April 9, 2025
2 Forest fires widespread in Mahottari – Makalu Khabar – April 9, 2025
Reet is a science journalist and researcher with a keen focus on extreme weather, space phenomena, and climate-related issues. With a strong foundation in astronomy and a history of environmental activism, she approaches every story with a sharp scientific lens and a deep sense of purpose. Driven by a lifelong love for writing, and a curiosity about the universe, Reet brings urgency and insight to some of the most important scientific developments of our time.
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