Nepal flash flood kills 157, leaves 400 missing

A devastating flash flood in Nepal's Bhote Koshi River has killed at least 157 people and left more than 400 missing, including over 100 Indian nationals, after the torrent swept through villages and tourism areas on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The disaster, which originated on the Nepal-China border, prompted immediate offers of humanitarian assistance from India and a high-level response from the Nepali government.

The flood surged through the Bhote Koshi River at approximately 9 a.m. local time, affecting the districts of Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot. Visuals from the scene showed floodwaters sweeping away buildings and infrastructure. The Nepal Tourism Board reported that 384 travelers were missing, including 291 foreign nationals. Among the missing are at least 105 Indian tourists and 37 non-resident Indians. Other nationalities affected include citizens from the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands.

In response, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, to convey condolences and offer all possible humanitarian assistance. Modi stated that India stands...