Why a newly formed lake is sparking fears of more flooding along the Nepal-China border

BENGALURU, India — As rescuers battled through mud and debris following a devastating flash flood near the Nepal-China border, authorities have raised concerns about the formation of a new, overflowing lake that could lead to further flooding. Nepalese officials have urged all security personnel, rescue workers, and civilians involved in relief efforts to remain highly vigilant and swiftly seek safety if necessary.

Abi Narayan Kafle, a spokesperson for the Nepal police, confirmed to the Associated Press that the rescue operation remains active but on high alert. "It hasn't stopped," he stated.

Satellite imagery from Chinese state broadcaster CCTV suggests the newly formed lake is situated in the same region where a glacial detachment event occurred on Wednesday, triggering a series of events that culminated in catastrophic damage downstream. Nepal's disaster management authority, citing satellite imagery and preliminary assessments, indicated that the river has been obstructed upstream, creating a reservoir that could suddenly overflow and unleash a rapid downstream flood.

CCTV reported on Friday that the lake's barrier extends more than 10 kilometers from Gyirong Port, the border crossing with Nepal that was inundated by mud and floodwater. The broadcaster stated that the lake lies at an elevation of 2,950 meters, roughly 1,000 meters higher than Gyirong Port.