Nepal Flash Floods: Landslide-Triggered Surge Sweeps Away Houses Along Budhi Gandaki River

A sudden flash flood along Nepal’s Budhi Gandaki River swept away houses and damaged infrastructure in Gorkha district after a landslide was reported near Siuribas, prompting authorities to issue evacuation warnings and launch rescue operations.

The flood struck early on Sunday, October 11, sending a powerful surge of water, mud, rocks and debris through riverside settlements. Several houses and bridges were damaged or swept away, with communities in the affected area facing disruption to transport links and essential infrastructure. Indian Express Reuters

Landslide Suspected as Trigger

Preliminary reports indicate that a landslide above Siuribas, in Chumnubri Rural Municipality, may have blocked the Chumke Khola stream. A sudden release of water following a temporary blockage is among the explanations being examined by authorities. The precise sequence of events was still under investigation.

Residents Warned to Move to Safety

Authorities urged people living along the Budhi Gandaki River to stay away from the riverbanks and move to higher ground. Rescue teams, including Nepal Army personnel, were deployed to assist affected communities and assess the damage.

Reports published on October 12 said that at least five people remained unaccounted for, while rescue operations were continuing. The flood also left trekkers stranded after damage to trails and bridges disrupted movement in the region. The situation remained fluid as officials worked to reach isolated settlements and establish the full extent of the destruction. Associated Press Reuters

Damage to Homes, Bridges and Infrastructure

The flood affected settlements along the river and damaged bridges and infrastructure used by local residents and visitors. The disruption has added to concerns about the vulnerability of mountain communities, where landslides and sudden changes in river flow can cut off access to remote areas.

Authorities continued rescue and assessment efforts, with residents in downstream areas urged to follow official warnings. The number of people affected and the total damage were still being assessed as of October 12.

The incident highlights the dangers posed by sudden floods in Nepal’s mountainous terrain, where a landslide or temporary blockage can rapidly turn into a destructive surge downstream.