Nepal flood death toll climbs to 389 as rescue efforts span eight districts

The devastating Bhotekoshi River flood that swept through Nepal's Rasuwa district and downstream has claimed 389 lives, according to Nepal Police. As of Thursday evening, authorities reported recovering bodies across eight districts, with significant numbers found in Chitwan (137), East Nawalparasi (87), and West Nawalparasi (27). In addition to the fatalities, 466 people have been rescued with injuries.

Search and rescue operations are continuing throughout the affected areas, which have been severely impacted by the flood. Personnel from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force, supported by helicopters, are working to reach stranded survivors and recover victims. The flood caused widespread destruction to roads, bridges, schools, and settlements, severely hampering access to many locations.

Communications remain disrupted in some of the hardest-hit areas in Rasuwa, making it difficult to ascertain the full scale of the disaster. Families are actively searching for missing relatives at hospitals and identification centers. The disaster has also raised concerns downstream, as satellite analysis revealed a new lake formed upstream after an ice and rock avalanche blocked the Lhende River. Authorities have issued a warning that this natural dam could breach, potentially causing another flood, and are urging residents and rescue teams along the river corridor to remain vigilant.

Rescue efforts are further complicated by the extensive damage to transportation infrastructure. In Nuwakot, authorities are working to reunite children separated from their families during the flood. Officials have repeatedly appealed for more personnel and equipment to aid in the ongoing operations, particularly for the recovery and management of bodies.