China Halts Tibet Rescue Due to Flood Risk from Mudslide-Formed Lake

Rescue operations in Tibet have been halted due to the imminent threat of renewed flooding, state media reported on August 28. Hundreds of people remain missing two days after a devastating mudslide struck the China-Nepal border region.

The primary concern is a rapidly forming lake composed of immense piles of debris left by the mudslide. This newly created body of water has begun overflowing, directly threatening the area where rescue teams were attempting to locate survivors. State broadcaster CCTV confirmed that all rescue teams have been ordered to stand down and await further instructions.

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All rescue teams have been ordered to stand by in place and wait for further instructions.

Emergency teams that had gained access to the affected zone have been instructed to retreat at least 1 kilometer as a safety measure. The situation is exacerbated by continued rainfall, which is expected to cause water levels in the debris lake to rise significantly over the next three days, potentially peaking around September 1.

Xinhua news agency reported late on August 27 that the rising water levels increase the risk of a breach. Such an event could send floodwaters surging downstream, causing further damage to critical infrastructure and communities, including Gyirong Port and other areas along the river. Emergency engineering teams are closely monitoring the evolving situation, while rescue efforts are on hold.

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Emergency teams which had earlier accessed the area have been ordered to withdraw 1km.