“강물 다시 불어나고 물소리 들려”…네팔 ‘2차 홍수’ 비상

Nearly two weeks after a massive flood struck the Himalayan region on the northern border between Nepal and China, the water levels in affected rivers are once again rising. The region continues to receive daily rainfall, raising concerns that a second flood could occur within days. Nepal's National Disaster Risk Management Authority (NDRRMA) warned on the social media platform X that the flow of the Rasu River had increased and water could be heard, urging heightened vigilance.

Later that day, reports indicated that the water level in the Rasu River had further increased. The Rasu River is one of two tributaries that experienced landslides on the 26th. Nepal and China's Tibet Autonomous Region are still grappling with the threat of a "second flood" caused by a natural dam formed by the torrent of rocks, soil, and ice.

The dam, stretching 150 meters in length and 40-50 meters in height, is expected to collapse due to overflowing water, possibly leading to a second flood within days. Nepal's National Disaster Risk Management Agency (NDRRMA) had warned of the potential for a second flood as early as 30th March. Meanwhile, China's Central Meteorological Administration forecasted rainfall between 28th and next month, predicting the worst point could come around the 1st.

However, Chinese authorities estimate that the dam is releasing more water than collapsing, and downplaying the risk. The Tibet Autonomous Region's government press conference on the day confirmed that the natural dam was already releasing water downstream, stating the overall situation is stable. They added that the risk of total collapse of the natural dam is relatively low.

According to Chinese Central Television, the water level in the dam fell by 10 meters compared to its peak on the previous day, and the estimated inflow rate was 23 cubic meters per second, while the outflow rate was 50 cubic meters per second, indicating more water was flowing out of the dam.