Australians among hundreds missing in Nepal flash floods

Hundreds of foreign tourists, including dozens of Australians, are feared missing following devastating flash floods that have ravaged the Nepal-Tibet border area. The disaster has caused widespread destruction, sweeping away houses, roads, and bridges in the Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts and surrounding regions.

According to the Nepal Tourist Board, the number of missing people has surged, with initial reports of 384 individuals now updated to 403 foreign nationals unaccounted for. Among them are 33 UK citizens, 47 from the US, 34 from Australia, and 24 from Canada. The missing are almost equally divided between males and females.

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We are deeply saddened by the devastating flooding in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts and surrounding areas. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster. We express our solidarity with the people of Nepal during this difficult time. We encourage all those in affected areas to follow the guidance of local authorities and official safety advisories as the situation continues to evolve.

Australia's Ambassador to Nepal, Simon Ernst, expressed deep sadness over the disaster. A joint statement from several embassies, including Australia's, conveyed solidarity with the people of Nepal and urged those in affected areas to follow official guidance. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that government officials are urgently working to ascertain the welfare of Australians in the region.

"DFAT officials are urgently working to confirm the welfare of Australians in the area," Wong stated. Australians requiring emergency consular assistance have been advised to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre. The scale of the destruction underscores the severity of the flooding and the ongoing efforts to account for all those affected.

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The loss of life and destruction caused by flash flooding in Nepal and China is devastating. Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those killed or missing and all affected by this disaster. DFAT officials are urgently working to confirm the welfare of Australians in the area.