UN and Aid Agencies Warn of Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis Six Weeks After Nepal Floods

Six weeks after devastating floods hit Nepal in late August, local communities continue to struggle with recovery and require sustained assistance amid escalating climate risks, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported on Friday.

The disaster occurred after glacial ice and rock collapsed into the Bhotekoshi, Upper Trishuli, and Narayani-Gandak rivers, creating torrents that destroyed homes and bridges. According to reports, at least 1,400 people were killed, including 84 children, and nearly 5,300 individuals remain missing.

UNICEF spokesperson James Elder reported from Kathmandu that impacted towns and villages resemble "war zones," noting the severe emotional and material toll on surviving families. While UNICEF is providing cash assistance and supporting training initiatives, humanitarian access remains challenging, particularly in areas such as Rasuwa.

Caroline Holt, Director for Disasters, Climate and Crises at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), stated that isolated areas still rely on airlifted relief supplies. Holt noted that affected families are grappling with disrupted markets, increased transportation costs, and shortages of essential goods while roads and communications infrastructure are slowly being restored.

Both agencies emphasized the need for longer-term recovery support, including housing, income generation, and schooling for children.

Looking ahead to the upcoming COP31 climate summit in Antalya, Türkiye, Elder called for urgent global action and financial support for loss and damage. He noted that the Himalayas are warming at approximately twice the global average rate, despite Nepal contributing just 0.1 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

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