Intense Rainfall In Nepal Triggers Catastrophic Flooding and Landslides Across Kathmandu Valley
KATHMANDU, NEPAL- At least 66 people have lost their lives and 69 others are reported missing in Nepal due to severe flooding and landslides triggered by relentless rainfall. The country’s central region, particularly the valley surrounding the capital, Kathmandu, has been hit hardest, with more rain expected through Tuesday.
The torrential downpour, which has exceeded 200mm (7.9 inches) since Friday evening, has caused widespread flooding along nearly all rivers in the Kathmandu valley. Thousands of homes near these rivers have been inundated, and major highways have become impassable, stranding many residents on rooftops as they await rescue.
Tragic incidents have marked the disaster: five people, including a pregnant woman and a four-year-old girl, died when a house collapsed due to a landslide in Bhaktapur, east of Kathmandu. In Dhading, two bodies were recovered from a bus buried in a landslide, with 12 individuals reported onboard. Additionally, six football players lost their lives at a training center in Makwanpur, southwest of the capital.
Eyewitness accounts highlight the desperation of those caught in the flooding. Jitendra Bhandari recounted a harrowing scene along the Nakkhu River, where four individuals were swept away despite their pleas for help. Three were rescued downstream, but one remains missing.
Hari Om Malla shared his experience of losing his truck to the rising waters in Kathmandu. He described how he and his companions had to swim to safety, leaving behind personal belongings. “I have nothing now,” he lamented.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with more than 2,000 people reportedly saved from floodwaters so far. The Nepalese home affairs ministry has confirmed at least 60 injuries and over 200 damaged homes. The government has mobilized 10,000 police officers, volunteers, and army personnel to assist in search and rescue efforts.
Flooding has disrupted vital infrastructure, breaking water pipes and affecting power and communication lines. As a precautionary measure, authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and have banned nighttime road travel in the Kathmandu valley to minimize accidents.
Air travel has also faced significant disruptions, with numerous domestic flights delayed or canceled over the weekend.
Monsoon season often brings devastating floods and landslides to Nepal, but scientists warn that climate change is exacerbating the intensity of these rainfall events. A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to more erratic storm systems and severe weather conditions.
As the situation continues to unfold, the impact of this disaster is likely to escalate, leaving many in urgent need of assistance.
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