Nepal Steps Up Rescue Efforts as Hundreds Remain Trapped After Deadly Floods

Nepal has ramped up rescue operations to locate hundreds of individuals believed to be trapped in hydropower tunnels following catastrophic flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, 2026. Rescue teams, including experts from China and India, have been working to reach workers at hydropower sites, such as the Trishuli-3A facility, where crews have managed to create an opening to enter the tunnel. However, no one has been heard from within the tunnel yet.

According to Nepalese authorities, over 2,500 people are missing, with hundreds more presumed to be stuck at hydropower projects. The death toll has reached nearly 800 in Nepal, while thousands remain unaccounted for. The disaster has affected residents from numerous countries, including foreigners from more than a dozen nations who were working, traveling, or visiting the region for pilgrimage.

Nepalese officials have issued flood warnings, urging residents in affected districts to remain vigilant as water levels continue to rise in the Bhotekoshi River. Despite progress, rescuers are still unable to reach those trapped inside the Trishuli-3A tunnel. Meanwhile, residents are returning to their damaged homes to search for belongings and assess the extent of the destruction.

The flooding was caused by a glacial collapse in the Himalayas, which triggered a surge of water and debris through the valleys of both Nepal and Tibet.