What is the location of the flooding?
On August 26, 2026, a catastrophic glacial collapse and debris flow triggered severe flash flooding in northern Nepal near the Nepal-Tibet border.
A massive surge of water, ice, rock and mud swept through Himalayan river valleys, causing widespread damage (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
Severe flooding and debris flows have affected the following districts:
- Dhading
- Gorkha
- Nuwakot
- Rasuwa
Flooding has also affected downstream areas, including Chitwan, Tanahun and Nawalparasi East (2).
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
Flooding and debris flows remain ongoing, with rescue and recovery operations underway. Damage to roads, bridges and riverside communities has disrupted transportation and access to affected areas.
Authorities have deployed security forces and helicopters for search, rescue and relief operations, while difficult terrain and the risk of secondary flooding continue to hinder response efforts (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Authorities have urged residents near the Bhote Koshi River and other affected waterways to move to higher ground and avoid flood-prone areas. Officials also warn of possible secondary flooding from an upstream blockage.
The U.S. Embassy advises citizens in affected districts to stay away from riverbanks and low-lying areas and follow local instructions (4).
How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
