Rasuwa, Nepal — August 26, 2026 — Powerful flash floods have caused extensive damage across Rasuwa district near the Tibet border, with at least eight people reported dead and several others still missing. Fast-moving floodwaters swept through communities along the Bhote Koshi River, destroying houses and damaging roads, bridges and energy facilities. Rescue teams are continuing operations as difficult conditions hinder access to affected areas. Authorities have deployed security personnel and emergency workers to search for missing residents and evacuate people from vulnerable communities. Further flooding remains a concern as heavy rain continues in the mountainous region.

THE Bailiff is planning to launch a public appeal to support a community in Nepal following catastrophic flooding which has caused widespread loss of life and destruction.

Robert MacRae said the appeal would be launched once the immediate emergency had passed and the longer-term needs of affected communities were clearer, with the intention of identifying a project where Islanders’ donations could have a “meaningful and lasting benefit”.

Expressing his “profound sadness” following the disaster, the Bailiff said: “The scale of this disaster is truly shocking.

“My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones, their homes or their livelihoods, and with the communities whose lives have been changed so suddenly.

“I must commend Jersey Overseas Aid for acting so swiftly to support the immediate humanitarian response.

“At this stage, the priority is providing emergency assistance to those affected and ensuring help reaches those who need it most.”

The full extent of the damage and the longer-term impact of the flooding is still being assessed.

Mr MacRae said that once there was a clearer picture of what communities needed to recover and rebuild, he intended to launch a Bailiff’s Appeal.

The Bailiff’s Appeal

The Bailiff’s appeal is an official emergency fund created by the civic head of the Island to raise money for people affected by major local or international crises.

Previous Bailiff’s Appeals have been launched in response to major emergencies, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the covid-19 pandemic and Storm Ciarán.

“When we have a better understanding of where Jersey’s support could make the greatest difference, I intend to launch a Bailiff’s Appeal,” he said.

“My hope is that we can support something which will have a meaningful and lasting benefit for a community in Nepal, and help them look towards the future after such a devastating event.”

The appeal is expected to identify a specific project or area of need in Nepal where money donated by Islanders could make a tangible and lasting difference during the rebuilding process.