Police report 39 additional deaths, with 606 foreign nationals among the 4,898 still unaccounted for after August 26 floods.
The death toll from the August 26 floods in Nepal has risen to 1,344, according to the latest police report, which also states that 4,898 people remain missing. Among the missing are at least 606 foreign citizens. Rescue operations continue, with approximately 8,000 officers mobilized, having provided assistance to 8,962 individuals so far. The focus remains on finding survivors in the hardest-hit areas, following the recent rescue of two workers trapped for ten days in a tunnel at the Trishuli 3A hydroelectric plant.
Identifying the deceased is a significant logistical challenge, with 1,270 of the 1,344 recovered bodies, including 85 minors, yet to be identified. Forensic teams are collecting DNA samples, having already compiled 2,272 genetic profiles from deceased individuals and their relatives. In Tibet, China, also affected by the August 26 floods, authorities report 31 deaths and 531 people still unaccounted for.
The sudden floods, described as one of the worst disasters in memory, caused the Trishuli River to rise 15 to 18 meters above its normal level. This surge destroyed settlements along a 72-kilometer stretch of its banks, severely damaged hydroelectric plants and other infrastructure, and obliterated homes, roads, and bridges across several districts.
Why it mattersThe floods have caused widespread destruction of infrastructure and loss of life, impacting the country's development and recovery efforts.
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