Nepal observes national day of mourning for victims of flash flood disaster
Nepal is observing a national day of mourning following a catastrophic flash flood caused by a glacial collapse that killed over 1,200 people. Rescue operations remain ongoing, with thousands still missing in the Himalayan region.
Why it matters
The disaster highlights the increasing vulnerability of Himalayan communities to climate-induced geological events.
Image source, EPA Image caption, Oil lamps burn to mark the last day of the 13-day Buddhist mourning ritual in Dhunge, Nuwakot district, Nepal, 7 September 2026.
Nepalis observed a national day of mourning for the victims of the flash flood on Monday, lighting candles to mark the last day of the traditional 13-day Hindu mourning period.
While flags were flown at half mast, commemorations were scaled back as rescue teams continue to search for survivors. Candlelight vigils were planned for Monday evening.
At least 1,287 people are known to have died after a flash flood, believed to have been triggered by a glacial collapse, swept through villages in a Himalayan valley along border between Nepal and Tibet.
Almost two weeks later, more than 5,000 people are still missing.
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