Archive · 27 Aug 2026
Flash Floods Swallow Nepal Villages, Leaving Hundreds Missing
A very large flash flood hit villages near the Nepal-Tibet border.
The water rushed down the Bhote Koshi River and destroyed homes, roads, bridges, and vehicles.
At least 160 people were reported dead, although another report gave a total of 165.
Hundreds of people in Nepal and Tibet are still missing.
People nearby said the flood arrived suddenly, even though it was not raining.
Authorities believe a glacier collapse blocked a smaller river and caused the water to rise.
Rescue teams are digging through thick mud and silt to look for survivors.
Several countries and aid organizations are sending money, supplies, and rescue support.
A flash flood along Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River killed at least 160 people, with one report putting the total at 165.
The flood swept through settlements in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts, burying homes and roads under several meters of silt.
Authorities said a glacier collapse may have blocked the Lhende tributary, causing water to rise suddenly without reported rainfall.
Nepal reported 823 people out of contact, including nearly 300 Indian nationals; Chinese state media reported 558 missing in Tibet.
The United States, international aid groups, the European Union, the World Health Organization, and India pledged or sent emergency assistance.
- Who
- Residents and travelers in Nepal and Tibet were affected; rescue teams and international aid organizations are assisting.
- What
- A sudden flash flood destroyed villages and infrastructure, killed at least 160 people, and left hundreds or possibly more than 1,300 people missing across reported tallies.
- When
- The reports do not specify the date of the flooding.
- Where
- The flooding struck the Bhote Koshi River area, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts in Nepal, and Gyirong County in Tibet.
- Why
- Authorities said a glacier collapse may have blocked the Lhende tributary, causing a sudden rise in water; the exact sequence remains unclear.
- Reported deaths in Nepal
- At least 160 people, while the report’s headline and opening account give a total of at least 165.
- People missing in Nepal
- 823 people were reported out of contact.
- People missing in Tibet
- Chinese state media reported 558 missing in Gyirong County.
- Affected Nepal districts
- Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading.
- Suspected trigger
- A glacier collapse reportedly blocked the Lhende tributary of the Bhote Koshi River.
- International assistance
- The United States pledged $500,000, while the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies released $1.4 million.
- Indian assistance
- India sent an initial 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance.