Search Continues for Missing American Couple After Nepal Flash Floods

The daughters of a missing Texas couple are waiting for answers after their parents disappeared during a pilgrimage as floods affected the Nepal-Tibet border region, resulting in at least 472 fatalities. Deepak and Madhu Ahuja are among 90 Americans unaccounted for following the disaster that has left over 1,500 people missing across Nepal and Tibet. Their daughters, Ashna and Shreya Ahuja, reported that their parents had maintained regular contact until communication ceased. 'We hope that they have been found and are at a hospital and are safe,' Ashna stated while seeking updates from US officials and local contacts. The sisters are currently at their aunt's home awaiting news. Shreya last spoke to her parents hours before they headed toward the border crossing on August 26, unaware of the impending disaster. 'They had just finished the pilgrimage,' she recalled, noting their pride in completing the trek. The couple had also met a spiritual leader during their journey and were looking forward to returning home. By Friday morning, authorities reported at least 472 deaths in Nepal and Tibet, with over 1,500 still missing. More than 3,250 individuals have been rescued by helicopter, and over 150 injured survivors have been transported to hospitals in Kathmandu and surrounding districts. In Tibet, Chinese state media reported three deaths and 558 individuals missing in Gyirong County, including 260 foreign nationals. The US State Department confirmed that 90 Americans remain unaccounted for, with no American deaths confirmed as of the latest update. The Ahujas' daughters, along with other families, are holding onto hope as connectivity in the affected region remains disrupted. Ashna expressed the emotional toll of waiting for news, stating, 'It's definitely a terrifying situation.' The couple's journey was significant as Deepak aimed to complete the pilgrimage before turning 60. Madhu initially hesitated about the trek but chose to support her husband's dream. A video captured by Madhu showed Deepak meditating at Lake Manasarovar during their journey. The Ahujas are not alone in their search; other American families, including the Sharmas from New York, are also missing after traveling to the region for similar pilgrimages. The Rasuwa District in Nepal experienced the worst destruction, with floodwaters reportedly reaching heights of 650 feet. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the Nepal Tourism Board has reported rescuing at least 27 foreign nationals, including two Americans. Authorities are monitoring for potential further flooding as unstable debris poses additional risks. President Donald Trump stated that the US has offered assistance to Nepal, expressing readiness to provide aid as needed.