Nepal / Tibet: flash floods kill hundreds, hundreds more are missing

Nepal / Tibet: flash floods kill hundreds, hundreds more are missing

At least 359 people have been killed and hundreds remain missing after a catastrophic flash flood and mudslide struck the Nepal-Tibet border region. The disaster hit Rasuwa early on 26 August after a glacial collapse triggered a powerful debris flow. Nepalese authorities have reported 826 people missing, including hundreds of foreign tourists, while Chinese authorities say hundreds are unaccounted for across the border in Tibet. Floodwaters swept away buildings, bridges and roads, disrupted communications and electricity, and damaged hydropower infrastructure. Rescue teams are searching affected communities, although blocked roads and difficult weather are hampering operations. Authorities have warned of possible further flooding because debris has entered river systems, placing downstream communities on alert. Nepal’s government, Red Cross and other agencies are coordinating emergency assistance, while UN teams and partners are mobilising supplies and personnel. The death toll is expected to rise as searches continue.