294,000 People Still Face Climate-Linked Flood Risks in Nepal

Nepal faces rising flood risks as 294,000 people live in high-risk zones. Experts warn of climate-driven dangers.

October 9, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Kathmandu, Nepal — A new study reveals that nearly 294,000 people in Nepal are at risk of life-threatening floods caused by melting glaciers and unstable ice dams, with the number expected to rise as climate change accelerates.

The research, led by scientists including Scott Watson from the University of Leeds, highlights how development is expanding dangerously close to river channels in regions prone to catastrophic flooding. This includes areas near glacial lakes that could burst, releasing massive volumes of water downstream.

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A devastating August disaster, triggered by a rock and ice avalanche from Langtang Lirung, killed over 1,455 people and left more than 5,285 missing. Scientists warn that without better planning, the population exposed to such threats will only grow, emphasizing the need for improved early warning systems and land use policies.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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