Nepal Floods: 170 Lives Lost as Residents Battle Mud and Mayhem in Historic Monsoon Disaster!
The residents of Kathmandu, Nepal, are struggling to cope with the devastating impact of severe floods that struck the city on Sunday, September 29, 2024. The disaster has claimed at least 170 lives nationwide, with flash floods and landslides leaving thousands homeless and many more injured due to the relentless monsoon rains.
Returning to Mud-Caked Homes
As some families returned to their homes, they were confronted with the destruction left by the incessant rain. A resident from a slum near a riverbank described the experience of returning home, saying, “This morning we came back, and everything looks different. We couldn’t even open our doors; they are stuck with mud. Yesterday, we feared for our lives due to the rising water, and today we have no water to clean up.”
Rising Casualties and Ongoing Rescue Operations
According to the Home Ministry, the death toll stands at 170, with another 42 people reported missing. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to rescue over 3,000 individuals trapped by floodwaters and clear the roads blocked by landslides, restoring access to the capital. Tragically, 35 people lost their lives in a landslide on a highway south of Kathmandu when three vehicles were buried under the debris.
Record Rainfall and Overflowing Rivers
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has reported record rainfall, with one station at Kathmandu’s airport recording approximately 240 millimeters (9.4 inches) — the highest amount since 2002. Rivers such as the Bagmati and its tributaries overflowed, inundating homes and vehicles. Residents desperately sought higher ground, wading through chest-deep waters.
One local woman, Bishnu Maya Shrestha, recounted her harrowing escape, stating she had to leap from one rooftop to another to evade the rising waters. “Finally, they arrived with boats to rescue us,” she added.
Mobilization of Security Forces and Humanitarian Aid
In response to the crisis, over 3,000 security personnel have been deployed to assist with rescue operations, using helicopters and motorboats to aid those in need. Humanitarian organizations are also providing essential supplies and setting up evacuation centers for those affected by the disaster.
Flights Resume Amid Recovery Efforts
As of Sunday morning, more than 150 domestic flights in and out of Kathmandu were canceled due to the severe weather conditions. This summer's monsoon season has proven to be the deadliest, contributing to most of South Asia’s annual rainfall within just three months. Climate change has been identified as a factor, increasing the frequency and intensity of such disasters and leading to more severe floods and landslides each year.
