Several visuals from have emerged online as an avalanche of ice and rock triggered massive flash floods in Nepal on Wednesday. Rasuwa district, bordering Tibet, remains the worst affected, with villages and infrastructure swept away. Primary reports claim an earthquake might have caused the avalanche on the Lhende Khola river which runs through both Nepal and Tibet, causing severe flooding in the region, as per Reuters.
Earthquake or avalanche? Reason behind Nepal flash floods
Nepal’s Foreign Minister told Parliament that initial reports suggested an earthquake in the affected region may have triggered an avalanche, further causing the floods, as per local media.
Scientists are said to be examining a potential link between an ice avalanche and the sudden surge of water. Rijan Bhakta Kayastha, professor at Kathmandu University and climate researcher, said a preliminary assessment suggested that an ice avalanche may have blocked the Lhende River, causing water to accumulate before the blockage gave way. Kayastha mentioned that the consequent events might have sent a sudden surge downstream into the Bhotekoshi River, according to a report by the Kathmandu Post.
Quick answers to key questions
What caused the flash floods in Nepal on August 26, 2023?⌵
The flash floods in Nepal were reportedly triggered by an avalanche linked to an earthquake that caused a blockage on the Lhende Khola river, leading to severe flooding in Rasuwa district.
Why are authorities warning of a potential second flood in Nepal?⌵
Authorities are warning of a potential second flood because a blockage remains lodged upstream on the Lhende Khola river, which could cause another surge of water to occur.
How many people are reported missing due to the Nepal floods?⌵
As of the latest reports, 348 people, including 105 Indians and several other nationals, are reported missing due to the flash floods in Nepal.
What regions in Nepal were most affected by the flash floods?⌵
The regions most affected by the flash floods include Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot districts, all of which border Tibet and suffered significant damage and casualties.
Should residents near the Bhote Koshi river be concerned about further flooding?⌵
Yes, residents near the Bhote Koshi river should be alert and prepared for potential further flooding as authorities have issues warnings regarding ongoing risks from downstream surges.
Kayastha said the assessment was based on preliminary findings and discussions with scientists in Nepal and China. He also noted that an earthquake struck the Tibetan side around the same time. The US Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Tibetan territory at 8:37 am, around 47 kilometres north of Gosainkunda.
Floods in Nepal
According to AFP, the flood surged through the Bhotekoshi River at around 9 am local time after originating from the Tibetan side, affecting Rasuwa and Dhading districts, which border Tibet, as well as Nuwakot district, southwest of Kathmandu.
22 killed, 348 missing
The flood has killed at least 22 people, reported Reuters.
According to Reuters, 348 travellers, including 105 Indians, 93 Nepalis, three U.S. citizens, and 12 British citizens have been reported missing so far. Hundreds feared missing while widespread damage to the region is being reported by multiple media outlets.
Update on rescue efforts
Rescue efforts are currently underway. Police and military personnel have been deployed. However, officials have said rescue helicopters would not be able to land until the waters recede from the flooded areas.
Reportedly, those living in low-lying regions were being moved to safer and higher places, reported Reuters. On the other hand, those residing along the river have been advised to remain alert.
It is said that China has deployed at least 574 rescuers to the land crossing in an effort to rescue those stuck in the region.
India has also extended help by coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.
Conveying condolences over the loss of lives due to floods, PM Narendra said on X, “Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.”
More flood warnings
However, the danger hasn’t passed yet. Authorities have warned against a second flood which may occur as a blockage is still lodged upstream on the Lhende Khola river.
Meanwhile, flood alerts have also been issued in the India, including states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which border Nepal.
The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 am local time. It has destroyed several villages, roads and hydropower projects, officials said.
