Heavy rains that began on Thursday, September 26, caused severe flooding and landslides in eastern and central Nepal. Several days of extreme downpours led to tragic consequences: as of Sunday evening, September 29, around 170 people were reported dead, 42 missing, and 111 injured. Over 3,000 security personnel were involved in search and rescue operations across the country, along with helicopters and motorboats.
The country recorded unprecedented rainfall over the entire 54 years of observation. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, a new record was established at 25 measuring stations in 14 districts. The maximum rainfall recorded in a 24-hour period was 16.14 inches in Dama, Makwanpur District. In the capital, Kathmandu, 12.7 inches of rain fell within a day, resulting in the flooding of 2,200 homes and blocking nearly all roads connecting the Kathmandu Valley. A meteorological department official noted that such significant rainfall occurring simultaneously in various regions of the country is a rare and shocking event.
Due to the incessant rains, water levels in many rivers in Nepal have risen. The Kosi River exceeded the danger level at 10 stations alone. The Ministry of Home Affairs urgently called on residents near rivers to relocate to safe areas and avoid being on the ground floors of buildings where flooding is possible. People are advised to leave their homes only in case of extreme necessity until weather conditions improve.
Across the country, there are power outages due to infrastructure damage. Major roads, including the Narayangad-Mugling Highway, have been blocked.
Two ambulances transporting patients towards Kathmandu were halted midway due to landslides and flooding, resulting in the deaths of two patients.
Additionally, a bridge over the Bhotekoshi River, connecting Nepal and China via the Tatopani Customs Post, was destroyed. This halted cargo transport through a vital trade corridor, which could significantly impact the region's economy, forcing residents to use alternative routes, such as forest paths.
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