Nepal Monsoon Disasters Claim 22 Lives as Landslides and Floods Worsen

At least 22 people have died in Nepal following severe monsoon rainfall. The disasters occurred on Sunday, causing widespread landslides and flooding. Dozens more are reported missing as rescue efforts continue.

Authorities have issued a severe rainfall warning for eastern and central regions. The warning is active until Monday, October 6th. Major highways are shut and transport has been severely disrupted.

Eastern District of Illam Devastated by Landslides

The mountain district of Illam suffered the heaviest losses. According to a police spokesman, landslides there swept away several villages. At least 18 people were killed in Illam alone.

Rescue operations are being hampered by continued bad weather. Many roads have been washed away or blocked by debris. Helicopters are needed for medical evacuations, officials confirmed.

Festival Travel Complicates Crisis Response

The timing of the disaster is particularly difficult. It comes as hundreds of thousands are returning to Kathmandu after the Dashain festival. This major holiday involves travel to home villages.

Highways are now clogged with vehicles trying to return. The government is assessing the situation while dealing with blocked roads. Some areas in the capital itself experienced minor flooding.

The government declared a national holiday until Monday due to the extreme weather. This annual monsoon period typically ends by mid-September. The heavy rainfall this weekend is an extension of that season.

The death toll from the Nepal monsoon disasters highlights a recurring climate vulnerability. Rescue teams are racing against time to find survivors. The situation remains critical with more severe rainfall predicted.

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What areas in Nepal are most affected?

The eastern mountain district of Illam is the worst-hit area. Significant damage has also occurred in other eastern and central parts of the country. Southern Nepal has also reported flooding incidents.

How is the weather impacting travel?

Major highways connecting Kathmandu are closed due to landslides. Domestic flights were temporarily grounded on Saturday. Road blockages are causing major delays for festival travelers.

What is the historical context for these disasters?

Flooding and landslides are an annual threat during Nepal’s monsoon. Last year, similar events killed 224 people. The season usually runs from June to mid-September.

What is the current death toll?

Officials confirm at least 22 people have died. This includes 18 landslide victims in Illam, three from a lightning strike, and one from flooding. At least 12 individuals are still missing.

What is being done for rescue efforts?

Authorities have rescued 114 people so far. Efforts are ongoing but are hampered by rain and damaged infrastructure. Helicopters are being deployed for medical evacuations.

Trusted Sources: Hindustan Times