Flash Floods in Nepal Cause Devastation, Many Missing

At least 18 people died and over 380 are missing after sudden flash floods hit Nepal’s northern border areas according to authorities. Among the missing are three U.S. nationals along with 291 other foreign nationals, as per Nepal’s Tourism Board.

The floods swept through villages, severely damaging houses, roads, bridges, and power plants. Videos from the scene reveal torrents of water devastating the landscape, dismantling infrastructure, and consuming buildings.

Police reports cited by BBC confirm the death toll at 18. The nationalities of the deceased remain unknown. The flash floods occurred Wednesday, affecting the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district, impacting nearby regions including Nuwakot and Dhading.

Nepali President Ramachandra Paudel expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss and urged intensified rescue efforts. District administrator Narendra Pariyar warned of potentially high casualties and property loss, urging riverbank residents to seek safer grounds.

The mountainous terrain of Nepal complicates rescue missions. Helicopters could not land in Syapru Besi and Timure. Among the missing are individuals from various countries, including 12 British, 142 Indian, 17 Malaysian, four South African, eight South Korean, one Australian, and one Dutch. The nationalities of 111 others remain unknown. Tourism and travel companies organized trips for most missing foreigners.

An earthquake triggered a landslide, causing the River Bhote Koshi to flood, as explained by Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal. The floods left parts of Trishuli Bazar submerged in mud and water.

The Nepal Electricity Authority reported damage to six major hydropower and transmission facilities. Spokesman Abi Narayan Kafle stressed the scale of the flood and possible large-scale settlement damage. He reported efforts to alert and relocate riverside residents, engaging all resources.

Prime Minister Balen Shah confirmed coordination with medical teams, scouts, and the Red Cross to respond to the crisis. India’s government instructed border states to remain vigilant.