| Date | July 2024 – present |
|---|---|
| Location | Nepal, primarily its eastern and south-eastern districts |
| Cause | Climate change, urbanisation near flood plains and poor drainage infrastructure |
| Deaths | 250+ |
| Missing | 50+ |
The 2024 Nepal floods were the by-product of torrential rainfall during the annual monsoon season in early July, mid August, and late September, which caused significant flooding across the nation as well as several mudslides. The September floods, which caused the most damage and deaths, were caused by the heaviest rainfall recorded in the region since at least 1970, itself the result of climate changes and specifically a low-pressure system. The impact of the floods was further increased by poor infrastructure and settlement planning, including unplanned construction on floodplains.
The most severe floods began on 26 September and heavily impacted several of eastern Nepal's districts, especially those districts adjacent to Kathmandu and the Bagmati River. The nearby states of India, such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Assam, and parts of northern Bangladesh were also affected.[1] The Kosi River filled to dangerous levels, while the Bagmati River and Nakkhu rivers caused flooding in Bagmati Province. The Kathmandu Valley received between 240 mm (9.4 in) and 322.2 mm (12.7 inches) between 28 and 29 September, causing flooding in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. Infrastructure, including waterpipes and access to power and internet, was damaged, and seven highways out of the city were blocked. Multiple casualties were reported from vehicles buried by landslides. The government directed police and military forces, totalling over 30,000 people,[2] to assist with rescue and clean-up work, and schools and universities were closed in impacted areas.
At least 14 people were killed by flooding in early July; nine were reported missing.
In late September, the Government of Nepal reports that at least 158 injuries, 224 deaths and 28 missing persons were confirmed due to severe flooding, including at least 37 in Kathmandu. All flights from Kathmandu airport were cancelled, and Nepalese schools and universities closed for three days. Around 13,300 people required rescue, while at least 1,200 houses were destroyed or damaged. Infrastructure damages included 25 bridges, 27 highways, 11 hydropower stations, 7 highways, and numerous telecommunication stations. Agricultural and livestock resources were also damaged.[2]