Punakha sits in one of Bhutan’s high Himalayan valleys, where a temperate climate brings a monsoon-influenced wet season from June through September, considerably drier than the subtropical foothills to the south.
At the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, Bhutan’s former capital has a documented history of glacial lake outburst floods, including a destructive 1994 event. Because Bhutan’s rivers are fed by both monsoon rainfall and Himalayan glacial melt, the country faces a distinctive flood risk from glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in addition to ordinary monsoon flooding, and radar remains a key tool for tracking the intense, localized storms that can trigger flash floods in these narrow mountain valleys. Learn more: Flash Flood Warning Signs on Radar · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Punakha right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Punakha, Punakha District in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Punakha, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Punakha rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Punakha?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Punakha District are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Punakha or pass by.
Is this Punakha rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.