KATHMANDU: Nepal experienced a slightly above-average monsoon this year, marked by 1,375.4 millimeters of rainfall—97.23 percent of the long-term average of 1,415.5 millimeters—lasting 135 days.
Despite the extended season, human and material losses significantly decreased compared to last year, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The country recorded 1,454 disaster incidents this year, down from 2,139 in 2024/25, with 140 deaths and 30 missing persons, compared to 495 deaths and 66 missing last year.
Floods, landslides, heavy rains, and lightning were the main causes of disasters, resulting in 140 deaths and affecting nearly 6,000 households. Ilam was the worst-hit district, recording 39 fatalities, prompting the government to declare it a disaster-hit area for three months.
Major incidents included a devastating flood in Bhotekoshi, Rasuwa, which destroyed the Miteri Bridge, damaged hydropower plants, and washed away dozens of vehicles. In contrast, Madhesh Province faced drought early in the season and was declared drought-affected for three months.
Authorities credit the reduction in losses to coordinated preparedness efforts guided by the Monsoon Preparedness and Response National Action Plan, 2082. A central command center operated continuously to coordinate rescue and response measures among agencies.
Over the past decade, annual disaster fatalities have fluctuated, with the highest toll of 495 deaths in 2024/25 and the lowest, 92 deaths, in 2023/24—showing how improved preparedness and early warning systems have begun to reduce the human impact of Nepal’s monsoon-related disasters.
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