KATHMANDU, NEPAL / RankWire.AI / – The United Nations is requesting $49.6 million to fund a four-month emergency response plan for the floods that occurred in Nepal in August. The flash appeal aims to support 84,270 individuals, with nearly 40% being children. It encompasses 19,284 households across 17 municipalities within six districts. These districts include Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, and Tanahu. The relief effort prioritizes shelter, food, healthcare, access to clean water, sanitation, protection, and support for winter conditions. The floods struck on Aug. 26, causing widespread destruction along major river corridors.
A glacier collapse triggered a surge of water, mud, and debris that swept through settlements along the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river system and surrounding areas. As of Sept. 6, the death toll had risen to over 1,300. Nearly 5,000 people are still missing, with search teams actively working across the affected districts. Rescuers have combed damaged villages, riverbanks, and hydropower tunnels searching for survivors and victims. Emergency crews have also reached isolated communities after roads and bridges were rendered unusable. While some survivors have been rescued days after the disaster, emergency operations persist throughout the region.
The floods resulted in extensive destruction of homes, schools, roads, bridges, and local power and water systems. Damage to transport links has made access to some mountain communities particularly difficult. The Government of Nepal is leading the national relief efforts across the affected districts. Humanitarian partners are supporting this response by providing emergency supplies and services. Their work includes setting up temporary shelters, delivering medical care, providing food aid, and treating water. Teams are also working to restore electricity and assist rural households that have lost livestock or other income sources.
Emergency funding prioritizes essential services
The $49.6 million appeal covers ten humanitarian sectors through the end of 2026. About $7.94 million is allocated for food security. Needs for water and sanitation total around $7.9 million, while health services require approximately $7.6 million. Logistics and emergency telecommunications together account for about $7.33 million. Shelter needs are estimated at roughly $7.1 million. These sectors collectively constitute the majority of the requested funds as relief teams address urgent requirements in communities impacted by the floods.
Access remains a significant challenge in parts of northern Nepal, particularly in upper Rasuwa. Damaged roads and bridges have slowed aid deliveries, with some teams having to travel on foot. Humanitarian assessments identified 3,844 displaced individuals living at 34 sites across four regions. They also recorded 4,288 affected households, including 2,886 displaced families. These families need support with shelter, food, drinking water, and sanitation. As aid operations continue, preparations for cold weather have also become part of the response strategy.
Relief supplies are being directed to the most affected districts
UNICEF received 84 metric tonnes of emergency supplies in Kathmandu on Sept. 4 for distribution to communities affected by the floods. The shipment included water tanks, hygiene kits, and water treatment supplies. It also contained diarrhoea treatment equipment, tents, winter clothing, and educational materials. Trucks have begun transporting these supplies toward Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. The aid supports access to safe water, healthcare, disease prevention, and education for children and families in remote areas. Continuing efforts focus on reaching those most isolated in the affected regions.
The appeal also provides for direct cash assistance where local markets can still serve affected families. Additional measures include temporary shelter materials, portable solar equipment, and support for damaged water infrastructure. Emergency health services cover urgent medical treatment, nutrition, and other immediate needs. Protection efforts include assistance for children separated from relatives during the disaster. Food aid and livestock support are integral parts of the comprehensive relief plan. The funding request aims to sustain essential services as Nepal continues with rescue, relief, and early recovery efforts.