What Caused the Flash Flood in Nepal-China Border

Dozens of lives were lost and hundreds remain missing following a devastating flash flood along the Nepal-China border on Wednesday. Nepali authorities have recovered 157 bodies, while working tirelessly to evacuate families in flood-prone areas. Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah assured the public of the government's full support in rescue efforts, food, shelter, and medical treatment.

China reported at least three fatalities and 265 people still missing, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Floodwaters obliterated villages, damaged bridges, and destroyed electrical infrastructure on both sides of the border. Tula Bahadur BK, a health worker in Rasuwa district, expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that settlements next to the river are entirely washed away and five of his relatives are still missing.

Chinese authorities also reported a mudslide on the Nepali side of the mountains, which spread to Gyirong County in Tibet, causing further devastation. David Fisher, the Nepal head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), confirmed that hundreds of people are still missing, with 403 travelers reported missing in Nepal.

Nepal's Tourism Ministry reported that 341 foreign tourists were among the missing, including 142 from India, 47 from the United States, 34 from Australia, 33 from Britain, and 24 from Canada. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that 34 Australians were among the missing. The Nepali police spokesperson confirmed that dozens of personnel are also missing, along with government revenue officials and hydropower workers.

Major rescue operations are underway, with Nepal dispatching over a dozen rescue helicopters to the mountainous Rasuwa region. However, the floodwaters were too high for the helicopters to land safely. Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah ordered the military and police to assist with rescues and advised people to stay alert and cautious near the river.

Chinese President Xi Jinping also ordered an all-out rescue effort, prioritizing the search and rescue of missing individuals, quick medical treatment, and minimizing casualties.

Experts warn that a second flood may be imminent due to a blockage still lodged upstream on the Nepal-China border river. Authorities urge people to remain vigilant and exercise caution until the situation stabilizes.