Active Monsoon and Its Immediate Consequences in Nepal, 2019

July 12, 2019

Pic. 1. The situation, Relief Supported during the Terai flood 2017.

Earthquakes, landslides, floods, fires, and lightning are among the major natural disasters in Nepal. Among these, floods and landslides remain some of the country’s most significant shocks and stresses. Although this year’s monsoon arrived later than expected, the early monsoon rains had already triggered devastating floods and landslides. The scale of the disaster caught both the public and the government by surprise. While the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology issued warnings through social media and online platforms, the actual impacts exceeded expectations.

Many local residents received alert messages but did not take them seriously. In rural areas, where access to the internet and social media is limited, radio and FM stations played a vital role in disseminating updates and warnings. However, despite these efforts, many people failed to respond appropriately to the alerts. A lack of preparedness significantly contributed to the loss of life and property. As of 11:06 a.m. on 13 July 2019, reports confirmed 23 deaths and 8 missing persons.

Heavy monsoon rainfall beginning on Friday, 12 July 2019, triggered severe flash floods and landslides across 20 of Nepal’s 77 districts, according to Home Ministry notices and media reports. The most affected districts included Ramechhap, Kavrepalanchok, Bhojpur, Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Khotang, Sindhuli, Dhading, Makwanpur, Jhapa, Parsa, and Rautahat, among others.

This is only the beginning of the monsoon season, and heavier rainfall is still likely in the coming weeks. Therefore, both government agencies and local authorities must continue to strengthen precautionary measures and preparedness throughout the season. Based on my experience and involvement in flood and landslide rescue, relief, and recovery programs, as well as insights from relevant documents and reports, I have identified the following key points.

Common causes of floods and landslides in Nepal

Heavy rainfall.
Deforestation.
Overpopulation.
Unplanned development.
Haphazard urbanization.
Blocked or inadequate drainage.
Vulnerable land structure.
Climate variability and climate change.

Human activities that increase flood and landslide risk

Natural resource degradation and deforestation.
Unplanned or rapid development.
Disturbance of natural water flow systems.
Rapid construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure without proper drainage and water-management planning is a prominent cause of flooding and waterlogging in the Terai and urban areas.

Flood and landslide impacts

Heavy damage to property.
Damage to infrastructure.
Road and trail destruction.
Collapse of bridges and footbridges.
Human casualties and injuries.

What to do during floods and landslides

Regularly check land and drainage conditions.
Monitor current flood warnings via radio or official channels.
Avoid entering floodwater unless absolutely necessary; never underestimate its strength, including when in a vehicle.
Follow instructions from emergency authorities.
Turn off electricity and water before evacuating if safe to do so; take your cellphone.
Assist elderly and disabled neighbors.

After floods and landslides

Do not enter your house until water levels have fallen below the floor level.
Check with electricity and water authorities before using services.
Be aware of contamination risks if water sources were flooded; drinking water may be unsafe.
Avoid eating unhygienic or contaminated food.

Ways to reduce flood and landslide risk

Ensure household drains are clear and functioning.
Remove dead or unstable trees that could fall on property.
Use sandbags to protect vital areas when necessary.
Raise house floor levels above ground where feasible.
Heed weather warnings from the Nepal Weather Forecasting system.
Check insurance policies for flood and mud damage coverage.
Notify neighbors if their boundary walls or land use diverts water or mud onto your property; diverting runoff to others may be illegal.

How to support victims through relief work

Conduct a situation analysis.
Identify and manage available resources.
Carry out an instant rapid assessment (IRA).
Identify vulnerable groups and individuals.
Coordinate and collaborate with government and non-government organizations.
Prepare relief distribution locations and plans.
Distribute relief materials and keep detailed records.
Monitor, evaluate, and report on distribution activities.

My involvement in relief distribution

I led district- and field-level assessments, coordinated with district teams, collaborated with local partners and stakeholders, and supervised field teams. I supported the Kathmandu DRR response team with information and coordination, and I handled recording, reporting, and crowd and conflict management during distribution.

Message from Health Emergency and Disaster Management Unit: