Nepal Orders Evacuations After Flash Flood

Authorities in Nepal have ordered evacuations along the Budhi Gandaki River after a landslide triggered sudden flooding in the country’s north-central mountains, sweeping away homes and other buildings.

Residents Flee to Higher Ground

Villagers fled to higher ground on Sunday, 11 October, as floodwaters surged through narrow valleys. Aerial footage released by the Nepal Army showed the river rushing between mountains as emergency teams evacuated residents from threatened areas. Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority warned communities to remain alert until late Sunday as officials monitored the situation.

Landslide Suspected as Cause

Preliminary reports indicated that a landslide blocked the river near Chumchure in Gorkha district, creating a temporary barrier. The barrier is believed to have eventually collapsed, releasing a sudden surge of water downstream. No deaths had been immediately reported, although several people were listed as missing. Authorities continued assessing the damage and monitoring the risk to nearby communities.

Nepal Still Recovering From Earlier Floods

The latest emergency comes as Nepal continues recovering from devastating flooding along its border with China in August. That disaster reportedly killed more than 1,400 people and left thousands missing. Nearly 33,000 people were affected, while approximately 7,500 homes were damaged or destroyed. The government has estimated reconstruction costs at $4.77 billion.

Recovery Efforts Face Transport Challenges

Authorities have been working to restore roads and bridges damaged in the earlier disaster, particularly in remote communities where disrupted transport routes have complicated the delivery of essential supplies. The new flooding presents further challenges for emergency services as they work to protect residents and assess damage in the mountainous region.