U.N. seeks $49.6 million to help Nepal after devastating floods

The United Nations has launched a $49.6 million emergency appeal to help more than 84,000 people affected by a devastating flood in Nepal. The appeal will run for four months and aims to coordinate international funding for the response.

The flood struck the border area between Nepal and Tibet, China, on Wednesday. On the Nepali side, at least 1,295 people have died and 4,898 remain missing. On the Chinese side, 31 people have died and 531 are missing.

The U.N. said the response addresses critical operational gaps identified by the Nepalese government. It aims to prevent further hardship and disease outbreaks as winter approaches in high-altitude Himalayan communities.

“

Families have lost everything: their loved ones, their homes, their livelihoods, everything swept away in a matter of minutes.

The plan calls for direct cash transfers in areas where local markets still operate, allowing families to buy essential goods while supporting local economies. Aid teams will also distribute materials for protection from the cold and provide portable solar panels to help restore household electricity.

"Families have lost everything: their loved ones, their homes, their livelihoods, everything swept away in a matter of minutes," said Lila Pieters Yahia, the head of the U.N. office in Nepal. She said the appeal would provide financial assistance, shelter, medical care, clean water and protection to remote communities before winter arrives.

“

Under the leadership of the Government, this appeal will provide financial assistance, shelter, medical care, clean water and protection to communities in the most remote areas before winter arrives.