The death toll in Nepal’s devastating flash floods rose to 616 on Saturday, but for families with loved ones still missing, the tragedy has become a desperate wait for answers as rescue teams continue searching through damaged homes, roads and riverbanks across several affected districts.
Rescue Efforts Underway as Floodwaters Rise
Authorities are actively conducting search and rescue operations in districts affected by rising floodwaters. Emergency teams are clearing roads and assessing damage to homes, with a focus on locating individuals who may still be trapped.
One resident recounted their experience, stating, “We had received information to go towards Bidur. We were told that the water had risen. The water came up quite high here. The police told us not to go from here and sent us back. Our entire family was sleeping in the house. We somehow managed to reach a higher place, but when the water came, we could not even take our belongings out.” This highlights the urgency and danger faced by families in the region as they navigate the crisis caused by the flooding.
In Trishuli, Dinesh and his family have spent the past three days searching for his two missing brothers after floodwaters swept through the area and destroyed their warehouse. We have a scrap business and had a warehouse, which collapsed. Two of our brothers are also missing, and we have not been able to contact them yet. Their business and warehouse were destroyed, but the search for the two brothers remains their biggest concern.
“We have been living in Trishuli for 17 years. Dinesh said the family was near the China border on August 26 when they saw the flood and immediately warned his brothers to run. The family has lived in Trishuli for 17 years.
Officials said the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach more affected areas and continue searching for missing people.
