KATHMANDU, NEPAL / RankWire.AI / – The number of fatalities caused by flooding across Nepal and Tibet has climbed to at least 919, with 4,793 individuals still missing. In Nepal alone, 903 deaths and 4,247 missing persons have been recorded following the disaster on August 26. Tibetan authorities have confirmed 16 deaths and 546 people missing in Gyirong County. Rescue teams remain active in mountain areas, river valleys, and hydropower locations affected by the floods. As they access previously unreachable zones and validate reports of missing persons, officials have updated casualty figures accordingly.
Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reported that rescue efforts have led to the safe relocation of 10,451 individuals. This count includes 252 foreign nationals. Authorities indicate that 592 foreigners are still missing in Nepal, with 933 workers linked to hydropower projects along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli corridors unaccounted for. The figure for injuries stands at 267, and 156 people have been discharged after receiving medical care. Over 20,000 security personnel are involved in ongoing rescue, recovery, and relief tasks.
The flooding incident began early on August 26 in the Bhote Koshi River region in Rasuwa District, where rapid water flow caused significant destruction to homes, roads, bridges, power stations, and infrastructure. The districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha experienced severe impacts as floodwaters traversed connected river systems. The disaster also impacted Gyirong County in Tibet near Nepal’s border. Rescue operations continue in both regions, with efforts focused on communities, valleys, and work sites. Difficult terrain and damaged roads have made access to some locations particularly challenging.
Search efforts remain concentrated on hydropower installations
Specialized search teams are prioritizing hydropower sites, where many workers remain missing. Nepal Army personnel are collaborating with tunnel rescue specialists from India, China, and South Korea. It is estimated that at least 90 individuals are trapped within multiple hydropower tunnels, which have been blocked by mud, rocks, and debris. During rescue operations, teams have employed drilling tools, ventilation equipment, and heavy machinery. Authorities are cross-referencing employment records with reports from project operators and families of missing workers.
Efforts are also underway to identify bodies carried downstream by the floodwaters. Twenty-one hospitals are currently holding unidentified remains, with officials comparing these with records and relatives’ information. In Chitwan, DNA sampling and identification data have been collected before bodies are temporarily buried. Authorities are actively reconciling field reports to eliminate duplicate records and verify identities. Rescue teams are also investigating isolated settlements where damaged bridges and roads have slowed access. Officials caution that the verified totals may fluctuate as identification processes proceed.
Foreign nationals continue to be among the missing persons
Foreign citizens make up a significant portion of the missing persons list in Nepal and Tibet. Nepal reports that 592 foreign nationals are missing following the floods. In Gyirong County, Tibetan authorities list 261 foreign citizens among the 546 people still unaccounted for. These individuals include nationals from Nepal, India, Latvia, the United States, and Britain. Officials are exchanging information on identities, cross-checking travel records, and border movements. Consular representatives are also aiding families in confirming whether their relatives were in the affected areas.
Nepal’s government continues its focus on search, rescue, relief, and recovery efforts throughout the affected zone. Emergency supplies such as food and medical aid are being delivered to impacted communities. Authorities are monitoring river conditions and assessing damage to transportation routes, homes, and power infrastructure. Thousands remain displaced or cut off from essential services. Officials urge caution in trusting casualty reports, emphasizing that these figures may change as verification continues. The latest official data confirms 919 deaths and 4,793 missing persons across Nepal and Tibet.