Monsoon Havoc: Nepal Grapple With Deadly Floods And Landslides Causing 50 Deaths

Intense rain in Nepal has caused severe landslides and flash floods, leading to at least 11 fatalities and extensive damage to roads and buildings in the last 36 hours. Officials say eight people are missing, probably swept away in floods or buried in landslides, and 12 others are injured and receiving medical care. Rescue teams […]

by Sharmistha Pratap - July 7, 2024, 2:50 pm

Intense rain in Nepal has caused severe landslides and flash floods, leading to at least 11 fatalities and extensive damage to roads and buildings in the last 36 hours. Officials say eight people are missing, probably swept away in floods or buried in landslides, and 12 others are injured and receiving medical care. Rescue teams are working to reopen blocked roads using large machinery.

In southeastern Nepal, the Koshi River has risen above its danger mark, raising concerns about possible flooding downstream in Bihar, India. The river’s flow has surged to 369,000 cubic feet per second, far exceeding its usual 150,000 cusecs. To control this high-water volume, officials have opened all 56 sluice gates of the Koshi Barrage.

In Kathmandu, multiple rivers have spilled over, causing floods that have submerged streets and homes. Images from local media show people wading through waist-high water and bailing out flooded houses with buckets. Since mid-June, the ongoing monsoon season has resulted in approximately 50 fatalities across Nepal due to landslides, floods, and lightning strikes.

The northeastern Indian state of Assam is also experiencing severe floods, resulting in many deaths and displacing thousands of residents. These events highlight the recurring difficulties Nepal and parts of India face each monsoon season, with frequent landslides and flash floods due to the hilly landscape and intense rainfall. Authorities are closely watching river levels and advising residents to stay alert amid ongoing rescue operations and relief work.