Torrential rainfall in Nepal kills 112 people Over 60 missing

Torrential rainfall in Nepal has caused widespread devastation, leading to 112 confirmed deaths and 64 people reported missing as of September 29.

The country has been grappling with heavy rainfall since September 27, which has inundated several low-lying areas and caused river levels to rise, resulting in flash floods, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The Nepal Meteorological Department reported that this is the highest recorded rainfall in Kathmandu since 1970. In the 24 hours leading up to September 28 morning, the capital received 240 mm of rain, with some areas reporting as much as 322 mm, according to Reuters.

"Several roads have been flooded or blocked due to landslides," stated police spokesperson Dan Bahadur Karki. "Rivers such as the Bagmati have broken their banks, with water levels rising above danger marks." As a result, around eight different roads have been obstructed by landslides, complicating rescue efforts.

Karki further noted that the death toll is likely to increase as rescue missions continue, stating, “Many individuals are still counted as missing.” As of September 29 morning, 3,300 people have been rescued by relief teams, which consist of over 3,000 security personnel utilizing helicopters, rafts, and motorboats to assist in the operations.

Domestic flights in and out of Kathmandu resumed on September 29 after being temporarily suspended since September 27, with close to 150 departures cancelled due to the severe weather conditions.

The government and local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as the situation continues to evolve, and further rain is anticipated in the coming days. Rescue and relief efforts are ongoing, with priority given to locating those who remain missing and providing aid to affected communities.

By Khagan Isayev