Flash flood kills 8 in Nepal, hundreds missing; Tibet reports major casualties

A powerful flash flood in Nepal has claimed at least eight lives, with hundreds more missing, including 384 tourists, according to authorities. The deluge of water and mud devastated villages and infrastructure along the Bhotekoshi River, which originates in Tibet. Homes and bridges were destroyed or damaged.

Among the missing are 291 foreign nationals, primarily from India, but also including individuals from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia. On the Chinese side of the border, in Tibet's Gyirong County, state media reported "major casualties" and disruptions to communication and power lines. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered a search for the missing and the evacuation of residents.

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So far, eight bodies have been found. Rescue operations are underway.

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah announced the deployment of the army and security forces for rescue efforts. A disaster warning has been issued for areas downstream. The exact cause of the flash flood remains unclear, though a glacial lake outburst is being considered as a potential trigger. The floodwaters have also damaged significant electricity production capacity, impacting hydropower and solar facilities.

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I witnessed the flood sweep away eight or nine trucks, along with houses and people. It was absolutely heart-wrenching. I had not witnessed such devastation before.