A devastating glacier flood struck the northern Nepalese town of Devighat on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The disaster occurred when a glacier snapped near the Nepal-China border, unleashing a powerful flash flood that swept through the area along the River Trishuli. The torrent destroyed homes, businesses, and the town’s ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, known locally as the ‘fierce mother.’
Devighat, previously a thriving community known for its bustling market and religious significance, was left in ruins. Buildings were either washed away completely, left crumbling, or buried under deep mud. The floodwaters deposited thick layers of sediment across the town, submerging structures up to their roofs. The scene was described by survivors as one of unimaginable devastation, with the air heavy from the stench of deceased humans and livestock. Many residents waded through water and mud in attempts to salvage belongings.
Approximately 800 residents survived the incident, largely by fleeing to higher ground. Around 400 displaced individuals are currently sheltered at a school situated on a hillside away from the river. Aid efforts are underway, with relief workers distributing blankets, clothing, and one meal daily consisting of rice, lentils, and vegetables. Local charity workers involved in managing the evacuation camp acknowledged the limited resources but expressed hope for increased donations in the coming days.
The toll from the disaster remains severe. Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal reported that the affected areas have turned into swamp-like conditions, raising concerns about secondary flooding. Official counts indicate at least 600 people have died, with more than 2,400 missing, and thousands displaced. Among those missing are multiple foreign nationals, including 33 British citizens. The Nepal Tourism Board confirmed the rescue of 184 international visitors but noted 420 others remain unaccounted for.
Notably missing are four members of a British family from Surrey—former banker and beauty queen Surabhi Sahu, her husband Santosh, and their two children, who were on an adventure trek. Additionally, a British couple on pilgrimage, Anal and Sanjukta Kar, and British-Indian national Pankaj Naug, who crossed the Rasu-wagadhi border just before the flood, have not been located.
Search-and-rescue operations are being coordinated from the Maithili camp, a Nepali army training facility roughly five miles inland from Devighat. Survivors continue to arrive at the camp, many traumatized and displaced. One man, Bahdur, was rescued from a remote village on the Nepal-Tibet border and is currently the only remaining member of his family, who are unaccounted for.
As efforts to provide basic necessities continue, officials caution that recovery will be prolonged and difficult for the community as it copes with the scale of the disaster.