104 Lives Lost as Nepal Battles Monsoon Floods

Nepal’s capital is grappling with the aftermath of devastating monsoon floods that have claimed at least 104 lives. As residents return to their neighborhoods on Sunday, they confront the harsh reality of destruction left by heavy rains.

Flooding and Landslides: A Common Threat

During monsoon season, floods and landslides are a recurring issue in South Asia. However, experts now warn that climate change is making these disasters even more frequent and severe. This weekend, flash floods swept through Kathmandu, submerging entire neighborhoods and causing extensive damage to major highways.

Survivors Share Their Stories

Kumar Tamang, a 40-year-old resident from a riverside slum, recounted his terrifying experience: “We had to flee at midnight as water rushed into our home. Today, everything looks different, with mud blocking our doors,” he told AFP, highlighting the emotional toll of this disaster.

Casualties and Rescue Operations

The Nepalese home ministry has confirmed 104 fatalities, with 64 individuals still unaccounted for. Rishi Ram Tiwari, a ministry spokesman, noted that rescue efforts are ongoing to clear blocked highways and assist those in need. “More than 3,000 people have been rescued,” he said, showcasing the tireless work of emergency responders.

In a particularly tragic incident, 14 people lost their lives when a landslide buried two buses in the Dhading district, just south of the capital.

Record Rainfall and Its Consequences

Kathmandu recorded an astonishing 240 millimeters (9.4 inches) of rainfall in just 24 hours—the heaviest downpour in over 50 years, according to the weather bureau. As rivers like the Bagmati overflowed, many residents waded through chest-deep water in search of higher ground.

Emergency Response Efforts Underway

Emergency teams, including over 3,000 security personnel, have been deployed, utilizing helicopters, motorboats, and rafts to aid in rescue missions. Domestic flights began to resume by Sunday morning after a temporary grounding due to severe weather, although over 150 departures had to be canceled.

The Link Between Climate Change and Monsoon Disasters

The summer monsoon is responsible for 70-80% of South Asia’s annual rainfall, regularly bringing death and devastation. Scientists caution that the rising frequency of extreme weather events is tied to climate change. This year alone, over 260 lives have been lost to rain-related disasters in Nepal.