Continuous heavy rainfall has triggered devastating flooding and landslides across Nepal, leaving at least 66 people dead and 69 others missing, according to officials.
The rainfall, which began Friday night, is expected to persist throughout the weekend, intensifying the crisis.
Home Ministry spokesperson Rishiram Tiwari reported that among the dead, 34 were in the capital city, Kathmandu. In addition to the fatalities, 60 people have been injured, and 3,010 have been rescued across the country.
Nepal’s security forces, including the army, have been deployed for rescue operations.
Several vital roads have been blocked due to landslides, including the major Prithvi highway that links Kathmandu to other parts of the country.
Heavy machinery is being used to clear the roads and restore access.
The government had previously issued flood warnings, urging caution amid predictions of massive rainfall. Nighttime bus travel was banned, and security forces were put on high alert.
Rescue operations remain the top priority, according to Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who noted that officials are still assessing the extent of the damage.
Parts of Kathmandu, especially the southern areas, were submerged by swollen rivers. Residents were forced to seek refuge on higher floors as the waters rose.
An army helicopter rescued four individuals trapped in their homes, and the city experienced widespread power and internet outages during the downpour.
Nepal’s monsoon season, which began in June, typically lasts until mid-September.
Earlier this year, a severe landslide in central Nepal swept two passenger buses into a swollen river, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by the monsoon.