Nepal floods top updates: At least 469 dead, over 1,000 missing as China halts rescue ops amid risk of renewed flooding

A catastrophic flood originating from Tibet has claimed at least 469 lives and left over 1,000 people missing in Nepal, according to reports. The flash floods began when a glacier collapsed in Tibet, causing torrents of water and debris to flow into Nepal's Bhote Koshi River. The affected regions include Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot, with the disaster particularly impacting villages near the border.

The Nepalese government has declined foreign rescue teams, opting instead to allocate cash contributions and manage the crisis internally. Authorities warn of further flooding and overflowing lakes that could breach their banks, putting additional residents at risk. Over 1,500 people are currently missing, including numerous foreign nationals.

The Nepal Army is actively involved in rescue operations, particularly in a flooded hydropower tunnel where around 100 people are trapped. However, China has paused its rescue efforts due to concerns over potential renewed flooding, citing the risk of the overflowing lake breaching its banks.