Devastating flash floods triggered by a glacial collapse in central Nepal have claimed at least 579 lives, with nearly 2,500 people reported missing. The disaster, which struck on Wednesday, has caused extensive destruction to roads, bridges, and hydropower infrastructure, while the Red Cross estimates that over 90,000 people have been affected. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing across the rugged Himalayan terrain, supported by over 7,400 security personnel.
Authorities have issued a fresh flood warning as water levels rise again at the disaster site, raising fears of a new surge from a newly formed barrier lake. Chinese officials reported that approximately 2 million cubic metres of water have accumulated, with the potential for millions more to flow in. Rescue teams and residents near the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers have been urged to remain on high alert.
The crisis has extended into Tibet, where floods killed five people and left 558 missing, including many foreign pilgrims. India is actively involved in relief efforts, providing supplies and assisting in the rescue of stranded citizens. Nepal has requested assistance from both India and China to construct 42 Bailey bridges to restore critical transport links and facilitate ongoing recovery operations.
