Nepal Flood Death Toll Rises to 1,355 as Rescue Teams Search for Nearly 5,000 Missing

The death toll from the devastating floods and flash floods in Nepal has climbed to 1,355, while rescue teams continue searching for nearly 5,000 people still reported missing. The disaster, triggered by a glacial and mountain collapse near the Nepal-China border on August 26, has caused widespread destruction across northern and central parts of the country.

According to Nepal’s disaster management authorities, 4,996 people remain missing, including at least 589 foreign nationals. Rescue operations have so far resulted in the recovery of thousands of people, with 13,396 individuals rescued from areas affected by the floods.

The disaster began after an ice and rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border triggered powerful flash floods. The resulting surge of water travelled downstream through the Bhotekoshi River, destroying homes, vehicles, roads and bridges. Several hydropower facilities were also damaged, leaving hundreds of workers unaccounted for.

Rescue teams have faced major difficulties because of the scale of destruction, damaged infrastructure and challenging terrain. Several hydropower workers are believed to be trapped inside tunnels and underground facilities, prompting specialised rescue operations. Teams have been working to clear debris and reach isolated areas where survivors may still be found.

The catastrophic flooding has also affected areas across the border in Tibet. Chinese authorities have reported deaths and a large number of missing people on their side of the border, adding to the overall scale of the humanitarian crisis.

Nepal observed a national day of mourning on September 7 to honour those who lost their lives in the disaster. The mourning came on the 13th day since the floods struck, as families continued to wait for information about relatives who remain missing. National flags were lowered to half-mast as the country paid tribute to the victims.

Despite the rising death toll, rescue operations have continued, with authorities concentrating on locations where people may still be trapped or stranded. Recent successful rescues from damaged hydropower facilities have raised hopes that more survivors could be found.

Authorities are simultaneously working to restore damaged transport links, electricity and communications in affected regions. With thousands still unaccounted for, the final human cost of the disaster remains uncertain. Rescue teams are continuing their search operations while families await news of missing relatives. The scale of the destruction has made the floods one of Nepal’s most devastating recent natural disasters.