19 killed, 384 travellers missing in Nepal floods at China border; 'major casualties' reported in Tibet mudslide

Nineteen fatalities have been recorded in Nepal following catastrophic flooding on Wednesday, while Chinese state media revealed "major casualties" stemming from a mudslide at a Tibet trade center on the nation's eastern border. Eyewitnesses captured images of surging floodwaters inundating villages and vehicles, with the Nepal Police reporting the swift disappearance of 19 bodies and ongoing efforts to rescue missing individuals.

The missing population includes 384 travelers, comprising 291 foreigners and 93 Nepali nationals, swept away in the affected regions. Neighboring China, through CCTV, reported similar damage in Gyirong Port, Tibet, as well, though the circumstances remain unverified. The Nepal Tourism Board confirmed the missing travelers, urging authorities to verify their current locations.

The disaster struck Syabrubesi, a popular starting point for the Langtang trek and other trekking routes utilized by pilgrims visiting Kailash Mansarovar. Local teacher Suman Chalise described the flood's destructive power, noting that it swept away multiple trucks, houses, and people. The Nepal Army dispatched helicopters and disaster response teams to the hit areas.

Meanwhile, power outages affected approximately 430 megawatts of electricity production capacity. Scientists attribute the floods to seasonal monsoon rains, with climate change exacerbating their frequency and intensity.