A devastating flash flood struck Nepal on August 26, 2026, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The flood, triggered by a sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River near the Nepal-China border, led to landslides and submerged villages in the mountainous Rasuwa district. The death toll rose to 675 as the government initially rejected international search and rescue offers.
The United Kingdom deployed a Rapid Deployment Team to assist families of more than 30 UK nationals missing in the disaster. British officials confirmed the team was set to arrive in Kathmandu on Saturday. Meanwhile, an Australian hiker, Cara Severino, was found safe after being missing for several days. She is now being evacuated to Kathmandu.
Nepal also coordinated with the US and other countries to evacuate foreign travelers, including NHS workers and a Surrey family with teenagers. Helicopter operations played a key role in rescuing stranded individuals. Despite the scale of the disaster, efforts to locate and rescue those missing continue.
The Nepal Tourist Board reported over 3,000 people were affected, with many still unaccounted for. International aid teams are now working alongside local authorities to provide relief and support to the impacted communities.
