Finland sends €1 million to help Nepal flood victims

Finland is sending €1 million in humanitarian aid to Nepal after a devastating flash flood left more than 1,200 people dead and thousands still missing.

The funding will be channelled through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support people who have been forced from their homes.

The aid will help provide healthcare, clean drinking water, hygiene and sanitation supplies, and temporary shelter. Special attention will be given to women, girls and people with disabilities.

Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio said the flooding had caused enormous damage to both people and infrastructure.

The disaster struck northern Nepal last week and was exceptionally destructive. Authorities believe it may have been triggered in the Himalayas when a large mass of ice and rock broke loose and crashed into the water system.

Rescue and search operations are continuing, with thousands of people still missing in Nepal and neighbouring China.