Story perspectives

Albanese says missing Australians rise to 39 in Nepal

8/28/2026

Summary

Albanese Sends Relief

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 34 Australians are missing after Nepal flash floods.
The missing Australian count later rose to 39 as a specialised response team deployed.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is handling 43 consular cases.
DFAT will send three humanitarian specialists to Nepal.
Australia pledged a $5 million assistance package for flood-affected communities in Nepal.

Summary

Scientists Warn

Scientists warn a second flood could hit Nepal-China border area because of upstream blockage.
Nepal Electricity Authority reports about 430 megawatts of hydropower and solar capacity damaged, disrupting supply.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for “all-out” search efforts and stronger early-warning systems.
Rescue helicopters could not land in flood-hit zones until water receded, army spokesperson said.
Resident Raju Bhadel said his house was swept away, three family members rescued, one missing.

History

Historical Context

On 25 April 2015 a magnitude-7.8 quake struck Nepal, killing 8,962 people and prompting Operation Sankat Mochan, which deployed about 90 % of the Nepalese army and drew $3.5 million in Australian aid. The disaster spurred large-scale international coordination, a model echoed today as flash floods trigger Chinese President Xi’s rescue appeal and a renewed Australian pledge of assistance.

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Albanese Sends Relief

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said 34 Australians are missing after Nepal flash floods.
The missing Australian count later rose to 39 as a specialised response team deployed.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is handling 43 consular cases.
DFAT will send three humanitarian specialists to Nepal.
Australia pledged a $5 million assistance package for flood-affected communities in Nepal.

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