Severe flash floods struck Nepal’s central Gorkha district early October 11 following a landslide that blocked the Budhi Gandaki River. The blockage caused water levels to surge dramatically, triggering destructive flooding downstream that devastated two villages in the Chumanubri rural municipality.
Local authorities reported that homes, roads, and bridges were washed away, with part of a hydropower station sustaining damage. The national disaster risk reduction and management authority estimated that 204 homes suffered damage, affecting more than 650 residents. Over 100 foreign trekkers became stranded in the region, known as a popular hiking destination.
Rapid River Level Rise and Impact
The Budhi Gandaki river level reportedly surged from 2 meters to nearly 8.5 meters within hours as floodwaters rushed downstream from the landslide site. The sudden rise intensified the flooding impact, resulting in the destruction of two villages and significant infrastructure loss.
Ongoing Regional Vulnerability
This incident compounds recent hardships in Nepal, coming just two months after catastrophic floods and landslides near the Tibet border left thousands dead or missing. Emergency efforts are focused on rescue and relief, with continued concerns about stranded trekkers and unstable terrain in the flood-affected areas.
