Drone vision of Nepal flash floods

On August 26, a massive mudslide engulfed the Rasuwa district in Nepal, resulting in over 165 deaths and 558 people still missing. The US Geological Survey (USGS) has clarified the cause of the disaster, rejecting initial reports that suggested an earthquake triggered the flash floods. Instead, the USGS determined that a glacial collapse and debris flow were responsible for the catastrophic downstream impacts.

A magnitude 5.2 seismic event, initially reported as a magnitude 4.4 earthquake, was discovered to be caused by a glacial collapse instead. Seismic data and satellite imagery analysis revealed that an ice avalanche triggered by unstable geological conditions may have blocked the Lhende River, leading to the flash floods. Authorities warn that ongoing risks from an upstream blockage remain, advising residents to stay away from the rivers.

Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had previously suggested the same cause. Other theories pointed to a glacial lake flood, but the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) found no anomalies on the Chinese side of the border. University of Texas hydrologist Hatim Sharif stated that the cause defies most operational flood warning systems, as rainfall is typically a precursor to such disasters.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal provided over 10 tons of humanitarian aid as Nepal reels from the devastating flash floods. The Indian Ministry of State for External Affairs reported that they are coordinating with the Nepalese government to locate and rescue missing Indian nationals, who number approximately 130 to 133.