An Australian among hundreds missing in deadly Nepal floods
The flash flood in the Himalayan border region has killed at least nine people in Nepal. Nearly 300 foreign nationals, including an Australian, have been reported missing.
More than 160 people lost their lives after a flash flood struck the Tibet-Nepal border on Wednesday morning. Hundreds of tourists and hikers remain missing, with 35 Australians among them. Rescue operations are underway, and the Australian government is prioritizing confirming the welfare and whereabouts of the missing Australians.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong is working with Australia's ambassadors to China and Nepal to convey support and push for information. Over 600 foreigners were among the 826 people missing in Nepal. The affected areas include the Tibet side of the border and Langtang National Park, a popular hiking destination. The flood appears to have been caused by a glacier avalanche, according to hydrological observations from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for all-out search efforts and improved monitoring systems to prevent future disasters. Meanwhile, the Australian Embassy in Nepal has issued a joint statement with other nations, urging citizens in the affected areas to follow local safety advice.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
