Causes of Deadly Flash Floods Investigated in Nepal
Reports indicate that an earthquake and a possible ice avalanche caused the flash flood in Nepal's Rasuwa district, while hundreds of people, including numerous foreign tourists, are reported missing.
Following the devastating flash flood in Nepal's Rasuwa district near the Tibet border, initial reports suggest that an earthquake and a potential ice avalanche may be behind the incident. Communication has been lost with hundreds of pilgrims and tourists due to the disaster.
Initial Reports on the Flood Disaster
According to statements made by Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal to local media and Reuters, an earthquake may be behind the devastating floods that swept through villages and damaged infrastructure in the country's Rasuwa district near the Tibet border.
Claims of Ice Avalanche and River Blockage
Scientists are investigating the possible connection between an ice avalanche and the sudden surge of water. Rijan Bhakta Kayastha, a climate researcher from Kathmandu University, stated that an ice avalanche may have blocked the Lhende River.
It was noted that the accumulated water flowed in a sudden wave toward the Bhotekoshi River when the natural dam burst, and an earthquake occurred on the Tibet side around the time of the event.
Magnitude and Timing of the Earthquake
The United States Geological Survey recorded a 4.4 magnitude earthquake on Tibetan territory, about 47 kilometers north of Gosainkunda.
Authorities reported that floodwaters coming from the direction of Tibet affected the Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot regions via the Bhotekoshi River around 09:00 local time.
Missing Travelers and Official Statements
About 400 pilgrims, including more than 100 Indian nationals traveling for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, lost communication at the Rasuwagadhi checkpoint following the flood disaster.
According to preliminary agency records from the Nepal Tourism Board, missing foreign nationals include 105 Indian citizens and 37 non-resident Indians.
Emergency and Support Hotlines
The Indian Embassy in Nepal has launched emergency hotlines at +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500 to provide assistance regarding affected Indian citizens.