Fresh rains threaten rescue operations in flood-ravaged Nepal

Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology issued an alert on Saturday regarding imminent heavy rainfall in multiple provinces, raising concerns about further complications to search and rescue operations already hampered by intermittent weather. The forecast targets the hilly and mountainous regions of Koshi, Bagmati, and Gandaki provinces, as well as elevated areas of Karnali and the Terai regions of Lumbini.

The warning follows a devastating ice-rock avalanche triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border on Wednesday, which unleashed a torrent of water, mud and debris across central Nepal. The disaster has claimed more than 600 lives as of Saturday, with the number of missing persons standing at over 2,400.

Rescue operations have been intensified significantly, with authorities deploying more than 11,000 security personnel for search and relief efforts. The Nepal Army has mobilised over 5,000 personnel specifically for the operation. Additionally, nearly 2,500 people have been evacuated from affected areas, including 163 foreign nationals, as rescue teams work against deteriorating conditions.

The fresh rainfall warning presents a significant challenge to rescue teams already navigating treacherous terrain and logistical constraints. Meteorological officials have urged residents and rescue personnel to remain vigilant as weather patterns continue to evolve across the disaster zone.