Nepal-China flash floods: Death toll rises to 392

A catastrophic flash flood has killed at least 392 people in the mountainous border region between Nepal and China, with the death toll continuing to rise. More than 1,300 people remain missing, as rescue teams work to evacuate survivors from the disaster zone. Many bodies recovered in Nepal were swept downstream towards the Indian border, with some rescue workers finding only body parts in certain areas.

The Nepalese army has airlifted hundreds of people to safety, while 466 people have been rescued or injured in the latest update from the Nepalese police. Prime Minister Balen Shah reported that over 13,000 army and police personnel have been mobilized for rescue operations, with 573 people rescued via 69 relief flights on Thursday.

Over 550 people are unaccounted for on the Chinese side, including around 260 foreigners. A glacial collapse and debris flow may have caused the flash flood, creating a lake that burst and sent a torrent of water, ice, and mud downstream. Chinese authorities warn of further potential flooding from another lake on the Nepalese side of the border, containing around 2 million cubic meters of water.

The disaster threatens the livelihoods of remote Himalayan communities, with German aid organization Welthungerhilfe warning of the risks faced by families if their homes and harvest are destroyed. China plans to provide low-interest reconstruction loans totaling over $730 million, while Chinese insurance companies are offering rapid support.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Germany, the United Nations, the European Union, and the United States have pledged support for emergency relief measures.