Floods and landslides caused by heavy rains have killed at least 10 people and left 18 missing, Nepali officials said on September 28.
Since September 27, many parts of Nepal have been submerged by heavy rains, prompting authorities to warn of flash floods in several rivers. Police have recorded more than 175 floods and landslides, causing loss of life and damage to property. Most parts of the country, including the capital Kathmandu, have been affected by the heavy rains. At least 400 people have been displaced by floods and landslides.
The casualties were concentrated in Kavrepalanchowk, Lalitpur and Dhankuta districts, where many houses collapsed or were swept away by landslides after days of continuous rain. Rivers in the capital Kathmandu swelled, inundating homes and cars near their banks. More than 3,000 security personnel were deployed to assist in rescue efforts using helicopters and boats, as well as searching for missing people.
Landslides have blocked several highways, leaving hundreds of tourists stranded. All domestic flights from Kathmandu have been canceled since the evening of September 27. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rains until September 29.
Heavy rains during the June-September monsoon season cause widespread loss of life and property across South Asia, but deadly floods and landslides have increased in recent years. Experts say climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of natural disasters.