On August 26, 2026, devastating flash floods and landslides struck northern Nepal along the Nepal–Tibet border, causing widespread destruction with many lives lost or missing. The disaster damaged roads and other infrastructure and made it difficult to reach some affected communities. As search and rescue efforts continue, Tzu Chi volunteers in Nepal are assessing the situation and reaching out to those affected.
In the early morning of August 28, Tzu Chi volunteers set out at 5 a.m. with relief supplies and prayers for those affected. The team set out in three groups: one toward the disaster area, one to hospitals in Kathmandu, and another toward Lumbini and Chitwan to care for the injured and assess their needs.
Navigating damaged roads to assess urgent needs
The team traveled to Galchhi in Dhading District, Bagmati Province, about 45 kilometers from Tzu Chi’s Kathmandu office. The area lies along the north–south national highway, where landslides and debris have blocked many sections.
Having just returned from Dhading to the Tzu Chi office in Kathmandu, volunteer Bikash has brought back firsthand information about conditions in the affected area, helping the team gain a clearer understanding of what local communities are facing.
A second team has visited hospitals in Kathmandu to offer comfort and practical support to survivors undergoing medical treatment for storm-related injuries. Simultaneously, a third group traveled toward Lumbini and Chitwan to assess conditions and understand the needs of people affected by the floods.
Volunteers mobilize to package relief supplies for distribution to flood-impacted disaster zones. | Photos: Tzu Chi Nepal
Preparing relief supplies according to local needs
In the southern plains, a four-member team left Tzu Chi's Lumbini Jing Si Hall at 5 a.m. for Chitwan. After arriving, the team loaded an off-road vehicle with relief supplies prepared according to the needs identified in the affected areas, including 20 cartons of instant noodles, 20 cartons of biscuits, and 25 quilts.
The team also purchased food and drinking water near the affected areas to supplement the supplies being brought to the communities. Along with practical supplies, peace charms and red envelopes of blessings and wisdom carrying Master Cheng Yen’s blessings have also been prepared for those affected, offering a small gesture of care during this difficult time.
The team loaded an off-road vehicle with relief supplies for the needs in affected areas. | Photos: Tzu Chi Nepal
Caring for the injured and affected families
In Kathmandu, another team visited hospitals to learn about the injured who have been brought in from the disaster-affected areas, while the team traveling to Chitwan also visited local hospitals to understand the needs of those receiving treatment.
Reflecting on the scale of the disaster, Pi-Yu Lin (林靜嫺), Vice President of the Tzu Chi Foundation, noted that extreme weather conditions have created immense hardships for families across Nepal. In response to the crisis, local volunteers formed a unified emergency task force to conduct medical visits, distribute food, and assist affected households.
As more information becomes available, Tzu Chi volunteers will continue to assess the situation, coordinate across different locations, and prepare support according to the needs of affected communities.
Written by Yi-Chien Chen (陳誼謙)
