Deadly Nepal floods and landslides devastate Nuwakot district, hundreds still missing
A glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border triggered catastrophic floods and landslides in Nuwakot district on 26 August, leaving hundreds of people unaccounted for as rescue efforts continue.
Nepal's central Nuwakot district has suffered extensive destruction after flash floods and landslides tore through the area on 26 August, a day after a glacial collapse occurred near the Nepal-Tibet border.
Settlements along the Trishuli River basin, including Bidur, Devighat and Trishuli Bazaar, were struck by powerful surges of mud and debris. Photos and footage from the region show buildings half-buried in sludge, vehicles submerged, and critical infrastructure severely damaged.
Alongside neighbouring Rasuwa district, Nuwakot ranks among the hardest-hit areas. Hundreds of local residents, tourists and security personnel remain unaccounted for as search-and-rescue operations continue.
Emergency response
The Nepal Army has deployed MI-17 helicopters to open an emergency air corridor to the District Hospital in Trishuli, enabling evacuation of critically injured survivors and supporting rescue teams working in hard-to-reach areas.
Authorities have issued high-alert warnings for communities along the Trishuli and Narayani rivers, citing the danger posed by unstable debris further upstream that could trigger additional flooding and landslides. Multiple bridges and major roads connecting Nuwakot to neighbouring districts and to Kathmandu have been washed away or badly damaged, complicating relief efforts.
