Devastating flash floods caused by the collapse of a glacier have killed at least 160 people and left hundreds more missing along the Nepal–China border. The disaster struck without warning on Wednesday, sweeping through villages, disrupting transportation, and highlighting the growing dangers of climate change in the Himalayan region.
Authorities in Nepal confirmed 157 deaths, while Chinese state media reported three fatalities and 265 missing in Tibet’s Gyirong County, close to the border. Drone footage revealed roads washed away, buildings buried under thick mud, and widespread destruction. China's Xinhua News Agency also reported heavy casualties.
The mountainous region, known for its steep valleys that serve as key transport and trade routes, is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. In Nepal’s severely affected Nuwakot district, floodwaters coated buildings in mud up to their second floors, while vehicles were buried and debris clung to trees and power lines. Many survivors were left covered in mud, with little time to escape the fast-moving waters.
Resident Shoyam Rajbhandari recalled that the flood engulfed Dhunge Bazaar within half an hour, destroying the entire marketplace as people were preparing to leave for work. He said the number of people dead or missing remained unknown.
Officials reported that 403 people, including 341 foreign nationals, are missing. Among them are 133 Indian pilgrims traveling to Mount Kailash in Tibet, a sacred destination for Hindus. Also unaccounted for are 47 Americans, 34 Australians, 33 Britons, and 24 Canadians. The U.S. State Department confirmed it is aware that American citizens have been affected.
In Nepal’s Rasuwa district, bordering Tibet, at least 62 Nepali citizens remain missing. Many had been trekking near Gosaikunda Lake during the Janai Purnima festival. Although the monsoon season is generally unsuitable for trekking, it is a peak period for pilgrimages to Mount Kailash through the Rasuwa route.
Nepal Police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle said at least 28 police officers are also missing. Authorities have warned residents to stay away from the Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, and Narayani rivers, as floodwaters swept away 19 bridges and nearly 40 kilometers (25 miles) of roads. The Bhotekoshi River overflowed around 9 a.m., destroying several villages and hydropower facilities.
Government spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel said Nepal has requested assistance from both India and China to support ongoing rescue operations.