Villages Urged to Evacuate After Landslide-Triggered River Flood in Nepal
A flood caused by a landslide blocking a riverbed in Nepal's Gorkha district swept away homes; numerous people were rescued while five remain missing.
In the central Nepali district of Gorkha, a landslide in a village blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, triggering a flood and prompting authorities to urge residents to evacuate to safe locations.
Flood Caused by Landslide
A landslide occurred in the village of Chumnubri in Gorkha district, located about 100 kilometers west of Kathmandu, blocking the Budhi Gandaki River.
As a result of the river blockage, downstream floods occurred, and authorities urged villagers along the riverbanks to immediately evacuate to safe areas.
Missing Persons and Search and Rescue
According to statements from national disaster authorities, a total of five people—two women and three men—are unaccounted for.
Army units reported that 49 people, including a foreigner, were successfully rescued, though the nationality of the foreigner was not disclosed.
Infrastructure Damage and Destruction
Floodwaters swept away about a dozen houses and two suspension bridges, and also damaged a hydroelectric project camp.
Carrying mud and debris, the swollen river also destroyed a road bridge connecting Gorkha to the neighboring Dhading district.
Regional Warnings and Precautions
National disaster authorities have warned residents living near rivers in the Gorkha, Tanahun, Chitwan, Eastern Nawalparasi, and Western Nawalparasi districts.
Military and police search and rescue teams have reached the region and are supporting evacuation efforts by monitoring the situation via helicopter.