Pope Leo Prays for Victims of Devastating Nepal Floods

Vatican City, August 27, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has expressed his deep sorrow over the devastating flash floods that have struck Nepal, claiming hundreds of lives and leaving many more people missing.

Pope Expresses Sorrow and Spiritual Closeness

In a telegram sent on Thursday and signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Pope offered his heartfelt condolences to families mourning the loss of loved ones. He commended those who died to “the clemency of the Almighty” and assured all those affected by the disaster of his spiritual closeness.

The Pope also prayed for the emergency personnel involved in the difficult search-and-rescue operations. His message concluded with prayers for God’s assistance and protection for the people of Nepal as communities face the consequences of the catastrophe.

Hundreds Dead and Missing

According to reports, more than 350 people have died following a devastating torrent of water, mud and debris that swept through communities near Nepal’s northern border with China. More than 900 people remain unaccounted for, and the death toll is feared to rise as rescue teams continue searching through the debris.

Hundreds of people are also reported missing in neighbouring Tibet, bringing the total number of people unaccounted for across the affected region to almost 1,500.

The disaster is believed to have followed the collapse of part of a Himalayan glacier, sending a powerful surge of water into the river system. Entire settlements were inundated, while roads, bridges, power installations and other essential infrastructure were destroyed or severely damaged.

Rescue Efforts Continue

Thousands of soldiers, police officers and emergency workers have been deployed to assist affected communities. Helicopters are being used to reach isolated areas, evacuate survivors and deliver urgently needed food and medical supplies.

Rescue operations remain difficult because of damaged roads, mountainous terrain and the continuing threat of landslides and further flooding.

The tragedy has also renewed concerns about glacial instability in the Himalayas, where rising temperatures are accelerating the melting and retreat of glaciers.

Courtesy : The Vatican

Picture Courtesy : AFP or licensor