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Overview
Heavy rainfall between 27 and 28 September has swept across Nepal, causing widespread flooding affecting thousands of children and their families.
According to early estimates by Government authorities, around 217 people, including 35 children (11 girls and 24 boys), have lost their lives, with many others injured or missing. Hundreds of houses have been damaged, displacing thousands of people, and exposing them to the elements. In addition, landslides and rubble have blocked major roads hampering search and rescue efforts and access to critical services. The incessant rains, which lashed down non-stop, are one of the heaviest rains Nepal has seen over the past few decades.
Children are especially vulnerable during floods. Initial reports indicate 13 major hospitals have been damaged and water supply has been widely affected, having harmful – sometimes life-threatening – consequences for children’s health and nutrition. Water-borne (such as cholera) and vector-borne (such as dengue fever) disease outbreaks are a major concern. Damage to 54 schools deprives over 10,000 boys and girls of access to safe learning spaces.