26/08/2026
🚨 FLASH FLOODS STRIKE NEPAL–TIBET BORDER: HUNDREDS MISSING
A devastating flash flood has struck Nepal’s northern Rasuwa district along the Tibet border, leaving widespread destruction and hundreds of people unaccounted for.
According to a preliminary list released by the Nepal Tourism Board, 384 travellers are currently reported missing — including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali citizens.Among the foreign nationals are at least 105 Indians, along with travellers from several other countries. Authorities stress that these figures are still being verified.
The disaster occurred on Wednesday morning when a sudden surge of water swept through the Bhote Koshi River corridor, devastating areas around Timure and Syabrubesi. Homes, vehicles, bridges, roads and hydropower infrastructure were reportedly swept away or severely damaged.
🌊 What caused the sudden flood?
Initial reports suggest that an earthquake may have triggered an ice-and-rock avalanche or landslide, temporarily obstructing a river upstream. The sudden failure of such a blockage may have released a massive volume of water downstream.
However, authorities are still investigating the exact cause.
At least 19 deaths had been reported in Nepal in the latest updates, although the toll may rise as rescuers reach areas that remain difficult to access.
🚁 Search and rescue operations are underway, with Nepalese authorities working to locate missing travellers and assess the full extent of the devastation. Rescue efforts have been complicated by destroyed roads, bridges, debris and difficult Himalayan terrain.
⚠️ The situation remains developing. The number of missing and deceased may change as authorities continue verification and rescue operations.
🙏 Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating disaster.