Nepal Flash Flood After Landslide Leaves 5 Missing as Hundreds Are Rescued

A powerful flash flood tore through villages in Nepal after a landslide blocked a major river, leaving homes damaged, bridges destroyed and families desperately searching for missing loved ones.

The disaster struck along the Budhi Gandaki River in north-central Nepal on Sunday, October 11, 2026. The sudden surge of water swept through riverside communities, catching residents and travelers in a region known for its dramatic mountain scenery and popular trekking routes.

According to local officials, at least five people were reported missing following the flooding. More than 200 people were evacuated or rescued as emergency teams worked to reach affected communities.

How Did the Disaster Happen?

Officials believe the flash flood was triggered when a landslide near Chumchure village blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, temporarily holding back the water. When the natural barrier gave way, a powerful surge rushed downstream, damaging homes, bridges, roads and other infrastructure.

Videos from the affected region showed muddy water and debris moving through the mountainous landscape, while buildings near the river were left damaged or swept away.

The destruction also affected infrastructure connected to hydropower projects, creating additional challenges for communities that depend on roads and bridges to access essential supplies.

Hundreds Rescued as Hikers Become Stranded

Rescue teams, including Nepalese military personnel, were deployed to help residents and tourists caught in the aftermath.

More than 200 people were evacuated from affected areas, while over 100 hikers were reportedly stranded after sections of trekking trails were washed away. Some travelers faced a difficult choice: wait for assistance or attempt to continue their journeys along safer routes.

Authorities said evacuation efforts were being coordinated according to conditions on the ground. Helicopters and ground teams were also used to transport essential supplies to communities that were difficult to reach.

Early warnings helped many residents move to higher ground before the floodwaters arrived, potentially preventing further loss of life.

A Region Already Recovering From Disaster

The latest flooding has struck a region already dealing with the consequences of earlier natural disasters. Nepal’s mountainous terrain makes some communities particularly vulnerable to landslides, sudden flooding and damage to roads and bridges.

For families whose homes and livelihoods have been affected, the immediate priorities include locating missing people, securing shelter and restoring access to basic necessities.

Authorities continue to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts. The full extent of the destruction remains uncertain as emergency workers attempt to reach remote locations.

As rescue operations continue, families are waiting for answers about those who have not yet been accounted for.

Source: PEOPLE, Associated Press and AFP.

PEOPLE

Associated Press