Nepal is facing a catastrophic disaster after a glacial collapse triggered massive flash floods that swept through the region northwest of Kathmandu, near the border. The scale of the destruction is staggering. As of August 27, 2026, the official death toll is over 350 now. Rescue teams are searching for 1,300 missing people, including 65 Americans. Emergency workers are trying tirelessly to reach survivors, but severed communication lines and destroyed infrastructure continue to complicate search efforts.
The destruction has been particularly severe in Bagmati Province, where entire communities have been upended. Authorities are currently ramping up rescue operations in Nuwakot and Rasuwa, which are among the worst-affected districts. Rushing floodwaters and mud cascaded downstream, wiping out dozens of bridges and damaging nearly 25 miles of roads. The flooding has cut off villages from emergency services, leaving many stranded and in urgent need of aid.
This disaster hits incredibly close to home for our organization. We have long-standing relationships with partner churches in Nuwakot, a district directly in the path of the destruction. We also have 20 children living in this area who are part of our education sponsorship program. When the news of the flooding first broke, we found out right away that everyone was okay, but that they are only trapped on one side of the river.
Because the primary bridge connecting their area was completely washed away by the torrent, half of those 20 children are currently unable to cross. Thankfully, they have a secure place to stay. They are temporarily sheltering in our church building, where our local partners are caring for them and ensuring their immediate needs are met.
While we are relieved that these children are safe, the recovery work is only just beginning. We are actively mobilizing and preparing to provide additional emergency relief. This upcoming aid will target our sponsored children, their immediate families, and other vulnerable households in the region who have been affected by the flooding.
Just last November, we hosted a Vacation Bible School for the children in Nuwakot. We plan to visit them again this coming November to bring encouragement and tangible support, provided we can safely travel to the village.
In the days and weeks ahead, these communities will need tremendous support to rebuild what was lost. We ask that you join us in praying for the people of Nepal, the ongoing rescue efforts, and our brothers and sisters in Nuwakot.