URGENT UPDATE: At least 44 people have been confirmed dead and five others are missing following devastating landslides and flooding in Nepal due to severe rainfall. The latest reports from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority indicate that the majority of fatalities occurred in the eastern mountain district of Illam, where entire villages were swept away by cascading mud and debris.
The catastrophic events unfolded after heavy rainfall began on Friday, September 29, 2023, particularly affecting Illam, a region known for its tea plantations and proximity to the Indian border. Tragically, a landslide struck a home, killing six family members as they slept, according to Illam’s assistant administrative officer, Bholanath Guragai.
Rescue operations are hindered as ongoing rainfall complicates access to affected areas. Many roads have been obliterated or rendered impassable, forcing authorities to deploy helicopters to facilitate medical evacuations and transport displaced individuals to safer locations. In a neighboring district, another fatality has been reported, while additional casualties include three individuals killed by lightning and three others who drowned in flooding in southern Nepal.
The Nepali government has issued a severe rainfall warning for the eastern and central regions, effective from Saturday to Monday. Major highways have been closed, including vital routes connecting the capital, Kathmandu, to other parts of the country. Domestic flights faced cancellations on Saturday due to poor visibility, but operations resumed on Sunday as conditions improved slightly.
As the country deals with the devastating aftermath, transportation disruptions are pronounced, particularly as hundreds of thousands return to Kathmandu after celebrating Dashain, the largest festival in Nepal. Highways are congested as the government assesses the situation, with some areas near the river in Kathmandu experiencing flooding, although no significant damage has been reported.
In response to this crisis, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and offered assistance, stating on social media, “The loss of lives and damage caused by heavy rains in Nepal are distressing. We stand with the people and Government of Nepal in this difficult time.”
The Nepali government has declared a public holiday until Monday in light of the extreme weather conditions. Last year, similar flooding and landslides resulted in the deaths of 224 people and injured many more.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on recovery efforts and ensuring the safety of those affected. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to respond to this urgent crisis.
