Toronto, ON, August 27, 2026 — A major flash flood and glacial landslide has struck parts of northern Nepal and the Chinese border linking Tibet, with hundreds of people reported missing and early reports indicating multiple fatalities. As search and rescue efforts begin, Plan International stands in solidarity with all those affected by this disaster and is monitoring the impact on children, especially girls, and their families.

Plan International Nepal Acting Country Director, Srijana Gurung said:

“This is a deeply tragic disaster affecting children and their communities across Timure, Rasuwagadhi and Syabrubesi in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading. We all remember the catastrophic earthquake 11 years ago that killed almost 10,000 people. Many of the communities impacted by yesterday’s disaster were also severely affected by the 2015 earthquake. No child deserves to go through an event like this, let alone two.

“Across Nepal, communities are facing climate shock after shock with barely any time to recover. Floods and landslides have always happened in Nepal but the climate crisis is making them far more frequent and intense.

“So far, we know the flash flood from the Bhote Koshi River has caused extensive damage to villages, markets, roads, communications infrastructure and hydropower facilities in Nepal. It is still too early to know the full scale of the destruction, but we fear the impact may be severe, with many people killed and injured.

“The Government of Nepal has moved swiftly to support rescue and relief efforts, deploying security forces and issuing warnings to communities downstream along the Trishuli River. The priority now must be reaching children who are among those most affected, supporting families searching for loved ones, and ensuring vulnerable communities have the assistance they need.

“Plan International stands in solidarity with all those affected by this devastating disaster. Our thoughts are with the children, young people, families, tourists and communities facing loss, uncertainty and disruption.

“Families today will have lost loved ones but also their homes, and livelihoods and will be in urgent need of medical attention, shelter, water, food and hygiene kits. Girls and young women often face heightened risks in the aftermath of disasters, including disruptions to education, increased caregiving responsibilities and greater protection concerns.

There is also a risk of waterborne disease as access to clean water and sanitation is likely to have been damaged.

“We are in close communication with the Government of Nepal and are closely monitoring the situation to support a coordinated, needs based response, that reflects the distinct needs and risks facing children, especially girls.

“At this difficult time, we recognize the strength and resilience of communities across Nepal, especially girls, and remain committed to working alongside government authorities, partners and local communities to ensure children and their families are protected and supported. Particular attention must be given to those most at risk, including girls, women, older people and people with disabilities, while ensuring their rights, safety, dignity and voices remain at the centre of the response."

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To support children affected by the flooding in Nepal and other global crises, visit plancanada.ca/donate/children-in-crisis.

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About Plan International Canada

Plan International Canada is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. Plan International has been building powerful partnerships with and for children for almost 90 years and is now active in more than 80 countries.

We stand with children, especially girls, wherever they are oppressed, exploited, left behind or not equally valued. We’re determined optimists and will continue to persevere until we are all equal.

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