Death toll rises to 157 following flash hloods in northern Nepal

AKIPRESS.COM – The death toll from the flooding that struck Nepal’s northern Rasuwa district near the border with China has reached 157, according to police data reported by local media outlet Ratopati.

The highest number of victims was recovered in Chitwan with 64 bodies found, while 27 people died in Dhading district and 22 in Nawalparasi.

A further 41 individuals have been hospitalized with injuries.

Nepal’s Ministry of Tourism reports that around 403 tourists are currently missing, including 341 foreign nationals.

A major search and rescue operation involving 3,300 police personnel is underway, though 28 police officers are also listed as missing.

The flooding was triggered on the morning of August 26 by a debris and snow avalanche originating from Tibet, which caused water levels to surge abruptly in the Bhote Koshi and Trisuli rivers.

Prime Minister of Nepal Balendra Shah has ordered the immediate evacuation of local residents to safe areas.