Nepal flash floods: MSF teams assess urgent humanitarian needs

After a major flashflood struck the Rasuwa district in Nepal, an MSF team experienced in providing emergency responses has arrived in Nepal to assess people’s immediate needs. MSF stands ready to provide urgent humanitarian and medical assistance. ​

The floods rapidly impacted Timure, Rasuwagadhi and Syabrubesi areas causing significant damage to settlements, markets and infrastructure. Flood waves are estimated to have been as large as 8-10 metres in some locations. Hundreds of people are feared to have died with many people still missing. ​

Floodwaters reached the town of Mugling in Chitwan district and have since begun to recede, though authorities say the risk remains high, as the blocked section of the river upstream has not yet been fully cleared. ​

High-alert warnings have been issued for communities located along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, particularly in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha and Chitwan districts. People living along riverbanks have been advised to move to safer locations.

Authorities are carrying out urgent search and rescue operations in affected areas and a full health emergency response has been initiated. ​

The MSF team arrived in Nepal less than 24 hours after the floods struck, and we are engaging with health facilities to assess if we can support. We know from our years of experience in emergencies that people in affected areas will have urgent needs for shelter, non food items, access to clean water and latrines, and emergency medical and trauma support. ​

MSF teams are assessing how we can provide assistance to people and stand ready to support the national response to this tragedy. ​