On 27–28 September 2024, extreme late-monsoon rainfall hit central and eastern Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, the Bagmati and its tributaries burst their banks on 28 September, flooding neighbourhoods, and landslides blocked the main highways into the city, including the Prithvi Highway. Nationwide, more than 200 people died in floods and landslides.
In short: record rain on 27–28 September 2024 caused severe flooding in the Kathmandu Valley and landslides across Nepal. By 30 September, 193 deaths had been reported, and the final toll rose above 200.
Impact
At least 34 people were killed in Kathmandu, the hardest-hit district, as rivers flooded low-lying settlements. Landslides cut the Prithvi Highway and other routes, stranding travellers for days. The rain came just before the autumn trekking season and the Dashain festival.
For travellers
Late-season monsoon storms can affect travel even at the end of September. Keep spare days, check road conditions, and stay away from riverbanks in heavy rain. See our Nepal in September guide.