Nepal: 112 killed in rain-induced floods, landslides
What's the story
The death toll from a string of floods, landslides, and inundations in Nepal has climbed up to 112 in just 24 hours. As of Sunday, the Armed Police Force (APF) and the Nepal Police reported that an additional 68 people are still unaccounted for, while around 100 have been hurt. The worst-hit area is Kavrepalanchowk, where 34 fatalities were recorded, followed closely by Lalitpur with 20 deaths.
Unprecedented weather
Record-breaking rainfall triggers humanitarian crisis
Kathmandu just had its rainiest day in 54 years on Saturday, receiving 323mm of rainfall in just one day. This weather was caused by heavy rains due to water vapor from the Bay of Bengal and a low-pressure system hanging around. The National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Authority (NDRRMA) had already warned 56 out of 77 districts about potential disasters from these rains.
Twitter Post
68 people are still missing
🚨🇳🇵Tragedy has struck Nepal as heavy rains unleash devastating floods and #landslides across the country.
— Weather monitor (@Weathermonitors) September 28, 2024
📌 #Kathmandu | #Nepal
Key Facts:
- At least 66 people confirmed dead
- 79 individuals reported missing
- Disaster unfolded over the past 24 hours
- Heavy rains triggered… pic.twitter.com/ATDnJl1srI
Extended monsoon
Nepal braces for extended monsoon season
The monsoon season in Nepal, which usually kicks off around June 13 and wraps up by late September, is now expected to stick around until late October. This year, the monsoon made an early entrance on June 10. According to the Meteorological Office, the country has seen 1,586.3mm of rainfall since this year's monsoon began. In light of the growing crisis, government on Saturday announced a three-day closure of all schools in Nepal and postponed the ongoing exams.