Kathmandu Flooding Claims 66 Lives, Rescue Efforts Underway

Kathmandu Flooding Claims 66 Lives, Rescue Efforts Underway

2 minute read
Published: 9/28/2024

Severe flooding in Kathmandu has claimed at least 66 lives and left 69 missing, as continuous rainfall inundated the city, prompting emergency rescues and government flood alerts across Nepal.

The catastrophic flooding, exacerbated by unrelenting rainfall since Friday, has overwhelmed emergency services, resulting in over 1,000 rescues and 17 injuries, while leaving many areas of the city submerged and causing widespread power and internet outages. With the monsoon season in full swing and severe weather expected to persist, government officials are urging the public to heed flood warnings as security forces remain on high alert.

According to police reports, at least 32 fatalities have been confirmed in Kathmandu. The search for the missing continues as authorities mobilize resources to locate those unaccounted for, intensifying the already urgent rescue efforts. A total of 66 people have been reported dead in relation to the flooding, with another 69 reported missing.

Emergency services reported that over 1,053 individuals have been rescued from flood-stricken areas. Many rescues were conducted in challenging conditions, with water levels rising rapidly and making roadways impassable. An army helicopter was deployed to assist in reaching individuals stranded in their homes.

The incessant rainfall that began Friday night has led to extensive area inundation, particularly affecting the southern side of the city. Numerous houses are submerged, and the situation adds to the already concerning impact of the monsoon season which runs from June to mid-September in Nepal.

In response to the situation, the Nepalese government issued immediate flood alerts across the country, warning citizens of the potential for further heavy rainfall and its dangerous consequences. Authorities have taken measures such as banning buses from traveling at night on highways and discouraging car use to minimize risks.

The flooding has not only posed a threat to life and safety but has also severely disrupted daily activities. Most areas in Kathmandu are experiencing power and internet outages, further complicating communication and recovery efforts. Citizens are advised to stay indoors and seek safety until conditions improve.

The police and security forces are on heightened alert as they coordinate with emergency responders to manage the situation. Local officials are urging communities to remain vigilant and prepared for the possibility of additional flooding as weather forecasts predict continuous rainfall over the weekend.

The monsoon rains, common during this period, often bring life-threatening conditions to various parts of Nepal, and recent flooding has tragically resulted in at least 66 confirmed deaths, with 69 people still reported missing. The full extent of the flooding's impact is yet to be determined.

As rescue operations continue, the nation grapples with the aftermath of this disaster. Further assessments will be necessary to understand the damage to infrastructure and the need for long-term recovery efforts as communities begin to cope with the devastating loss.