Nepal Flooding

Photo credit: Uma Bista Uma Bista/FCA

On August 26, 2026, the ground supporting a glacier in the Himalayan mountains gave way, causing a major avalanche of ice and rock to fall into the Bhote Koshi River. The debris caused a dam to form in the river, which suddenly and violently gave way, releasing a torrent of water and debris that flooded the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river valleys, severely affecting communities in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Gorkha and Dhading.

The sudden and high-intensity flooding caused extensive loss of life and widespread destruction of homes, settlements, business houses, agricultural farms, roads, bridges, hydropower facilities, Nepal-China border customs and immigration facilities, and other critical infrastructure, with many people missing or out of contact. Based on Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the event constitutes a large-scale and catastrophic emergency requiring a coordinated national and international humanitarian response.

According to the NDRRMA, 5 districts along the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river corridor spanning roughly 200 km are affected. Approximately 1.6 million people have been directly impacted. Moreover, 14,461 people remain isolated in the two most severely affected municipalities (Gosaikunda and Amachhodingmo Rural Municipalities, Rasuwa), with road connectivity, electricity, and communication services disrupted, severely limiting access to essential services, supplies, and emergency assistance.  

As of September 3rd, over 1,200 people have died and over 4,000 persons remain missing. In addition, schooling has been disrupted for 9,732 children. Community health facilities, health posts, and hospitals in the impacted area have all experienced significant structural damage. 

The UCC, through the Global HOPE team and Global Ministries, is actively supporting the relief and response activities of ACT Alliance and our local Global Ministries partners who are providing shelter, food and nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), education, and mental and psychosocial support for affected communities.

Thank you for your contribution. If you prefer to mail a check, make it payable to the United Church of Christ, PO Box 71957, Cleveland, OH 44194. Please be sure to note “Nepal Flooding” in the memo section of your check.
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