Monsoon leaves a series of disasters as it bids farewell for the year
Monsoon-related disasters in Nepal have claimed 195 lives and injured 247 people from June until the end of August as the monsoon neared its end for the year. Gandaki Province recorded the highest death toll with 56, followed by Bagmati with 39.
The disasters also displaced 5,883 families and left 49 people missing, with most missing persons reported in Bagmati. Injuries were highest in Karnali Province, with additional injuries reported across other provinces. Landslides and floods caused significant damage, affecting multiple regions, including Kathmandu Valley. Heavy monsoon rains triggered floods and landslides in Nepal, displacing over 800 families, primarily in Kailali district. Bhajani Municipality is the worst hit, with 750 families displaced and 4,127 affected. Floodwaters submerged 75% of the area, forcing residents to seek shelter on higher ground, in schools, and community buildings. Rescuers saved 16 trapped individuals in Kailari and Gauriganga. Landslides also blocked major highways, including the Damauli-Dumre section of the Prithvi Highway, stranding travellers for hours.
A glacial lake outburst caused severe flooding in Nepal’s Everest region. The Thame river destroyed 20 houses, an elementary school, and a clinic, displacing 135 people in Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. A government team led by Defence Minister Manbir Rai confirmed that two of five lakes above Thame village burst, with two others still at risk. The team conducted a helicopter inspection of the affected areas to assess the situation. The incident has been attributed to effects of climate change.
At least six people died while four others went missing when a landslide swept away six houses in ward 3 of Doramba-Shailung Rural Municipality of Ramechhap district. Survivors, including new mothers and elderly, were faced with freezing cold, overcrowded conditions in temporary shelters.
The monsoon season typically lasts 105 days, contributing 80% of the country’s rainfall.