Torrential flash floods along the Himalayan border shared by Nepal and China’s Tibet have killed at least 150 people and left at least 1,500 individuals missing, according to police. The disaster, which struck on Wednesday, has obliterated roads, bridges, and power projects while stranding hundreds of foreign tourists across multiple mountainous districts.
Death Toll Climbs as 1,500 Remain Unaccounted For
The death toll stood at 150 confirmed fatalities on Wednesday, according to police reports. Authorities in both countries warned that the death toll will likely climb as rescue teams struggle to reach remote areas. At least 1,500 people remain unaccounted for, including 800 foreign nationals hailing from more than two dozen countries.
Among the missing travelers are 177 citizens from India, 63 from the United States, 34 from Australia, 33 from Britain, and 25 from Canada. Alpine Eco Trek, a guided tour and expedition operator in Nepal, confirmed to the Press Association that two Irish nationals are among the missing from its tour groups. Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs stated it is closely monitoring the situation, and Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee expressed shock over the devastation.
Villages Wiped Out and Critical Infrastructure Collapses
The floods washed away entire villages, homes, and critical transportation links in regions bordering Tibet. In Nepal’s Rasuwa district, home to about 50,000 residents, officials reported that the Bhote Koshi river surged far above its normal course. District administrator Narendra Pariyar urged residents along the riverbanks to evacuate to higher ground as project sites and settlements disappeared under mud and water.
Grounded Aircraft Hamper Desperate Search Operations
Rescue helicopters remained grounded in the heavily affected areas of Syapru Besi and Timure because floodwaters made landing impossible. An army spokesperson confirmed that aircraft cannot access the zones until water levels recede. Television broadcasts showed crumbled homes submerged in brown torrents, floating vehicles, and a metal bridge collapsing.
Scientists Investigate Ice-Rock Avalanche Triggers
Initial satellite image analysis conducted by Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority suggests the disaster originated from a flood in the Lhende River triggered by a border landslide. Scientists from the Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, alongside partner institutions in Nepal and China, are investigating whether an ice-rock avalanche caused the surge.
A preliminary assessment by the Kathmandu research center indicates that a massive volume of ice and rock debris entered the river system, generating a sudden surge of water, sediment, and lahar that overwhelmed local valleys. The Nepal Tourism Board announced that staff and tourist police are actively working to verify the safety and whereabouts of travelers caught in the disaster zone.
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