The death toll from the flash flood near the Nepal-Tibet border has risen to at least 157, while authorities are actively conducting search and rescue operations for hundreds of people.
Foreign news agencies reported a massive landslide and flash flood near the Nepal-Tibet border, about 64.4 kilometers north of Kathmandu, causing severe damage to buildings, roads, and vehicles, and flooding along the Bhote Koshi, Trishuli, and Narayani rivers.
Nepal police updated the death toll to 157, while the Nepal Tourism Council reported 403 people missing, including 341 foreigners from 26 countries such as India (133), the United States (47), and the United Kingdom (33), as search and rescue efforts continue.
Regarding the landslide cause, Nepal's Foreign Minister initially suspected an earthquake, but the latest analysis from the US Geological Survey (USGS) found no seismic activity in the area.
Officials now believe the landslide was likely triggered by a chain reaction from heavy rainfall or glacial melt causing soil and ice layers to collapse; scientists are analyzing satellite images and rainfall data to determine the exact cause.
A massive volume of mud and debris surged into northern Nepalese towns, including popular destinations for climbers and pilgrims.
Video footage shows walls of mud and rocks sweeping away buildings, roads, and vehicles, while people fled rapidly from the fast-moving debris flow in the Nuwakot district.
Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah stated that the entire country is in a state of alarm and coordinating rescue efforts with China; currently, over 1,697 military personnel are conducting search and rescue operations, with an additional 656 preparing to join.
Six military helicopters have rescued 94 victims, while five civilian helicopters have saved another 12 people; ground rescue teams have assisted 27 more. Hundreds of kilograms of tents and medical supplies have been sent to affected areas.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered full-scale search and rescue operations and monitoring for secondary disasters, while India and the United Kingdom have pledged humanitarian aid and full care for their citizens.
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Source:bbc