4 min read
Update on the flood situation in Nepal
Churches are damaged physically, while numerous believers have died and others still missing. They are in desperate need, both practically and spiritually.
In the devastating flood, several districts in Nepal, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, and Tanahun, have been severely affected. Numerous homes, roads, bridges, hydropower projects, schools, health facilities, and communication networks in these areas have been badly damaged.
The Government of Nepal has declared several municipalities as disaster-affected areas and is coordinating relief and recovery efforts for the affected people and communities.
According to Reuters, the authorities have reported 903 deaths, while 4,247 people remain missing. In hydropower projects alone, around 933 workers are believed to have been trapped since the flood began on August 26.
More than 9,435 people have been rescued as security forces continue search- and-rescue and recovery operations across the affected districts. Rescue teams are facing significant challenges due to the difficult terrain. The floods have also washed away roads, bridges, and infrastructure, making it difficult to reach many affected places.
Mud and debris have covered large areas, leaving extensive damage.
Watch the video taken by our OD local partner showing the aftermath of the flooding in affected communities in Nepal (the audio is muted for security):
Physical, emotional, and spiritual damages
Raju*, an OD local partner, shared, “As per the information we have from our local networks, 75 believers have died in the floods, while more than 70 are still missing. These figures are a subject to ongoing updates as we receive more information from our partners.
“This terrible flood has torn families apart.”
— Pastor Mohan
A few churches in these districts have been physically damaged by the floods, with church buildings, equipment, and other materials swept away or destroyed. Most of the believers from these churches were working in tunnels, factories, hydro projects, and at other sites by the riverside.”
A local pastor, Mohan*, shared with tears, “17 people from our church remain missing and unreachable. This terrible flood has torn families apart. Children have been left without parents, women have become widows, and countless families are suffering unimaginable grief and loss.”
Practical and spiritual support
People, including Christians in the affected areas, are in dire need of food, clean drinking water, temporary shelter, clothing, blankets, and hygiene supplies. Many families have lost their homes, livestock, personal belongings, and important documents.
As reported by the Kathmandu Post, the Nepal government is assessing the extent of the damage. The reconstruction and rehabilitation of affected communities could require around US$5 billion.
As the situation remains uncertain, the number of deaths continues to rise, and rescue efforts are still ongoing, let us continue to lift Nepal up in prayer:
- Pray for God's comfort and peace for families who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.
- Pray for those who are injured, displaced, or living in temporary shelters.
- Pray for the safety of rescue workers as they continue operations in difficult weather and terrain conditions.
- Pray that relief supplies will quickly reach all affected communities, including remote mountain areas.
- Pray for wisdom and strength for government leaders and local authorities responding to the disaster.
- Pray for churches and Christian organizations as they serve affected communities with compassion and practical assistance.
- Pray for children and other vulnerable people who are facing fear, grief, and uncertainty.
- Pray for protection from disease outbreaks and further flooding in affected areas.
- Pray that affected families will find hope, healing, and strength as they begin the long journey of rebuilding their lives.
*Names changed for security reasons
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