'Major casualties': Devastating floods wash away villages on Nepal-Tibet border

Massive landslides and flash floods on the Nepal-Tibet border have wreaked havoc, leaving hundreds dead or missing. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing. Chinese state media reports significant casualties, while Nepalese officials fear a massive loss. An earthquake was reportedly felt near the border shortly before the landslide, potentially triggering the disaster.

However, the US Geological Survey's latest analysis disputes this, leaving questions about the landslide's cause. A deluge of debris swept through northern Nepalese towns, including popular tourist and pilgrimage destinations. The border lies about 40 miles north of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. Footage depicts a wall of mud and rock demolishing buildings, roads, and vehicles, as people rushed to escape the fast-moving wave of material in the Nuwakot region.

Severe flooding has affected the Bhote Koshi, Trishuli, and Narayani rivers. Deaths have also been reported on the Tibetan side of the border. While Nepal and China, which controls Tibet, have reported around 100 deaths each, the total death toll is expected to rise. Around 403 people are missing, including 341 foreign nationals mostly from India, with 47 from the US and 33 from the UK.

Nepal's Prime Minister expressed shock and distress, pledging coordination with China on the response. China's President Xi Jinping called for an all-out search and promised improved monitoring and early warning systems. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged humanitarian assistance. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated the UK government will do everything possible to support British nationals in Nepal.