Baglung saw temperatures increase during the winter season due to the lack of rain and snowfall this year. [break]
Local people in Bhimpokhara, Dhamja, Argal, Tarakhola, Taman, Khunga, Pandavkhani and surrounding areas have been surprised to see rhododendrons blooming in the forests near their villages so early.
"For the first time in my life I have seen the rhododendrons blooming in mid-January," said 77-year-old Khadak Bahadur Thapa of Bhimpokhara.
The Chhanp trees in the forest that used to flower in April and May are also ready to bloom.
The wheat and barley sprouts cultivated in highland mountain areas in the district have also started to wilt due to the lack of rainfall. Similarly, there is lack of pasture for the livestock in the area.
Not only the rhododendrons are blooming ahead of their actual flowering time, even permanent springs and brooks have dried up due to the adverse effects of climate change.
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