Glacial Collapse Triggered Deadly Nepal Flood
A massive glacial collapse in Tibet triggered the catastrophic flash floods that swept through Nepal’s Himalayan border region, according to preliminary scientific and satellite assessments. The disaster has killed at least 165 people in Nepal and left hundreds more missing across Nepal and Tibet.
Glacial Collapse Triggered Nepal Flash Flood
Initial reports suggested an earthquake may have caused the disaster. However, the US Geological Survey later determined that the seismic signal recorded in the region was generated by a huge collapse of glacial ice and rock rather than an earthquake.
Satellite imagery indicates that an ice-and-rock landslide struck the Lhende River around 20 kilometres northeast of the Rasuwagadhi border crossing. The collapse generated a powerful debris-filled surge that travelled rapidly downstream into Nepal.
Experts say the steep Himalayan terrain amplified the destructive force of the flood.
Hundreds Missing Across Nepal and Tibet
Nepalese authorities said 165 bodies had been recovered by late Wednesday, while three deaths were separately reported on the Tibetan side.
Nepal’s tourism authorities reported 468 tourists and travellers missing, including 393 foreign nationals. Those unaccounted for included 142 Indians, 47 Americans, 34 Australians, 33 Britons and 24 Canadians.
Authorities in Tibet reported another 558 people missing, including at least 260 foreign nationals.
Villages and Infrastructure Swept Away
The flood devastated settlements along river valleys, sweeping away houses, vehicles, roads, bridges and hydropower infrastructure.
Rescue teams have deployed helicopters and ground personnel as they search for survivors, but damaged communications, blocked roads and continuing instability have complicated operations.
Scientists warn that Himalayan glaciers are becoming increasingly unstable as rising temperatures accelerate ice loss, potentially increasing the risk of glacial collapses, landslides and sudden floods.
