Barrier lake near Nepal border could breach within 72 hours, China warns

A barrier lake near the Nepal border may overflow within 72 hours, according to warnings from Chinese authorities. This follows catastrophic flash floods that killed hundreds and left thousands missing in the region shared by China and Nepal. The lake, formed by a glacier collapse in Tibet, has already accumulated 2 million cubic meters of water and is expected to receive another 3 million cubic meters in the next three days, raising the risk of a breach, according to China's Ministry of Water Resources.

China's ministry is closely monitoring the situation and conducting flood simulations to prepare for a potential breach and support emergency rescue operations. At least 273 people have died and over 1,300 are missing across the border region, with figures varying due to differences in data collection and verification. In Nepal, 270 deaths and 826 people are reported missing, including 517 foreigners such as tourists and pilgrims.

India has the highest number of missing foreigners, with 288 people reported missing. The United States reported 65 missing, while Malaysia had 51, Ukraine 53, Australia 35, and Britain 33. In China, three deaths and 558 people are missing in Gyirong County, Tibet, including 260 foreign nationals. Chinese authorities have deployed emergency responders, including People's Liberation Army personnel, engineers, telecom operators, and relief organizations to the affected areas, but rescue teams face challenging terrain, ongoing rainfall, and the threat of further secondary disasters.