Nepal Flash Floods: Death Toll Rises To 359 As Search For Survivors Continues

Nepal is battling one of its worst recent disasters after devastating flash floods killed at least 359 people and left more than 1,300 missing, according to Nepali police.

Rescue teams continued searching on Thursday for survivors as emergency operations expanded across the affected areas.

The flash floods struck on Wednesday after the Bhotekoshi River suddenly surged around 9 am, causing widespread destruction across three districts. People, animals, homes, buildings and public infrastructure were swept away as floodwaters moved rapidly through populated areas.

Officials said the floodwaters hit a major market area before rushing downstream, leaving a trail of destruction. Foreign tourists were also among those reported missing.

288 Indians Still Missing

India has also been affected by the disaster. The Ministry of External Affairs said 288 Indian nationals remain missing, while around 200 people undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra have requested evacuation from the affected region.

India has sent two military aircraft carrying 48 tonnes of relief supplies to Nepal. The assistance includes solar lamps, hygiene kits, medicines and food supplies to support communities affected by the floods.

Rescue Operations Intensified

Nepalese security forces have stepped up rescue and relief operations, deploying helicopters as well as teams on the ground to reach stranded people and search for those still missing.

Authorities and relief agencies are providing medical care, temporary shelter, food, drinking water and medicines to people affected by the disaster.

Floodwaters have also damaged roads and bridges, complicating rescue efforts and disrupting transport links in several areas.

Himalayan Region Faces Growing Risks

The disaster has also highlighted the broader risks facing communities living across the Himalayan region. Rapid changes in glaciers, snow and glacial lakes can contribute to sudden flooding, threatening settlements, infrastructure and vital water supplies.

Nepal and Tibet have experienced similar disasters in recent years. In August 2025, a glacial lake in Tibet overflowed following unusually high temperatures, killing nine people and damaging critical infrastructure, including a bridge linking Nepal and China.

With search operations still underway, authorities are continuing to assess the full scale of the latest devastation and locate those who remain missing.