Severe flooding and landslides triggered by relentless rains in Nepal have claimed at least 66 lives since early Friday, with 69 people still missing, according to officials. The downpours have disrupted daily life, blocked major roads, and halted domestic air travel.
Most of the fatalities occurred in the densely populated Kathmandu Valley, where flooding has paralyzed transportation and daily activities. Rescue operations are underway, with helicopters and inflatable rafts being used to evacuate those stranded on rooftops and elevated areas. Some regions received up to 322.2 mm (12.68 inches) of rain within 24 hours.
Heavy rainfall, delayed by a late monsoon retreat, has caused most rivers to overflow, damaging roads and bridges. Officials are working to clear debris from at least 28 landslide-affected areas. Weather forecasts suggest rain will persist until Sunday morning, with improved conditions expected afterward.
Since the onset of the monsoon in mid-June, at least 254 people have died across Nepal due to landslides, floods, and lightning strikes.