Nepal: 66 dead and dozens missing in floods and landslides

So far, more than 2,000 people have been rescued from floodwaters, while at least 200 houses have been damaged, according to the state-run Radio Nepal.

The Nepalese home affairs ministry said that as of Saturday, 60 people had been injured.

Private houses, offices, shopping centres, hospitals and police posts were seen inundated in videos posted in social media.

Government spokesperson Prithvi Subba Gurung told the state-run Nepal Television Corporation that the flooding had also broken waterpipes, and affected telephone and power lines.

According to state media, 10,000 police officers, as well as volunteers and members of the army, have been mobilised as part of search and rescue efforts.

The Nepalese government urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, and banned road travel at night in the Kathmandu valley to minimise road accidents.

Most highways – including the ones connecting Kathmandu valley with the rest of the country – have been blocked in several places.

Air travel was also affected on Friday and Saturday, with many domestic flights delayed or cancelled.

Monsoon season brings tragic floods and landslides every year in Nepal.

Scientists say, though, that rainfall events are becoming more intense due to climate change.

A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, while warmer ocean waters can energise storm systems, making them more erratic.