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Summary

This is an article published on Nepal Flying Labs regarding the Melamchi Flood in Nepal, which occurred on June 15, 2021, as a devastating natural disaster resulting from a cascade of events. Prolonged rainfall in the Melamchi region triggered unstable slopes, leading to landslides and the temporary blockage of the Melamchi River. This landslide dam eventually burst, causing a flash flood with debris to surge downstream. The area was still recovering from the impact of the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake, making it particularly vulnerable. Local authorities issued warnings and advised residents to move to higher ground, but the flood still resulted in significant damage, including to public infrastructure, roads, bridges, and the Melamchi Drinking Water Project. Initial estimates suggest that around 260 households were affected, displacing more than 600 people. Researchers are actively studying the event to better understand the natural processes in the Himalayas.