Nepal Floods: Death Toll Reaches 626, Nearly 2,000 Missing Amid Rising Waters

The death toll from flash floods in central Nepal rose to 626 on Saturday, with nearly 2,000 people still missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The disaster has affected eight districts, with rescue teams continuing operations for a fourth consecutive day.

The NDRRMA said 233 bodies were recovered from Chitwan district, making it the hardest hit. Other districts with significant casualties include Nawalparasi East (158), Nuwakot (51), Gorkha (48), Nawalparasi West (47), Dhading (45), Tanahu (31), and Rasuwa (13).

The flash floods swept through Rasuwa and other parts of central Nepal on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction. According to officials, settlements, roads, bridges, and hydropower infrastructure have suffered severe damage, leaving many communities isolated. The exact scale of the destruction is yet to be fully assessed as rescue teams work to reach remote areas.

Nearly 2,500 stranded people have been evacuated so far, officials said. Search and relief operations are being carried out jointly by the Nepali Army, police, and local volunteers. Heavy machinery and inflatable boats are being used to clear debris and reach affected villages. The operation is being hampered by damaged roads and continuing rainfall in some areas. The NDRRMA is coordinating with district administrations and other agencies to ensure a swift response.

On Friday, the NDRRMA issued a warning that rising water levels at the flash flood site could trigger another flood. Authorities have advised people living near riverbanks to move to safer locations. Temporary shelters have been set up in schools and public buildings, and distribution of food, water, and medicine is underway.

Nepal, a Himalayan nation, is highly vulnerable to flash floods and landslides during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September. Climate experts have noted that extreme rainfall events are becoming more frequent in South Asia, increasing the risk of such disasters. The central region has received particularly heavy rainfall in the past week, leading to the overflow of rivers and streams.

The government has announced compensation for families of the deceased and has promised assistance to those who lost their homes. In a statement, the NDRRMA said the number of missing persons may change as search operations progress. Relatives of the missing are anxiously awaiting updates, and help desks have been established in affected districts.

The international community, including neighboring countries and global humanitarian organizations, has offered support. Rescue and relief efforts are expected to continue in the coming days as the focus remains on finding the missing and providing aid to survivors. Authorities are also working to restore road connectivity and power supply in the affected region.

As Nepal grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the resilience of its people and the support of humanitarian agencies will be critical in the weeks ahead. The immediate priority is to save lives, provide relief, and prevent further casualties from the threat of additional flooding.