Nepal flood death toll climbs to at least 359, new flood risks emerge

The death toll from recent floods in Nepal has tragically climbed to at least 359, with an alarming number of over 1,400 people still missing. Authorities fear the number of fatalities will continue to rise as rescue and recovery efforts proceed.

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A lake has formed about 18 kilometers upstream from the Rasuwa Gadhi border crossing due to the blockage of the Lende River flow. If the dam of this naturally formed lake collapses, there is a risk of another large-scale flood.

The disaster is believed to have been triggered by a massive glacial collapse on Langtang Lirung mountain, near the border between Nepal and China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Approximately 600 meters of glacier reportedly collapsed into the Lende River, creating a dam. The subsequent breach of this natural dam unleashed a powerful flood that inundated residential areas downstream.

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Residents in downstream areas should take necessary preparatory measures and exercise extreme caution.

Adding to the concern, new flood risks have emerged. Nepalese authorities have identified a newly formed lake upstream from the Rasuwa Gadhi border crossing, created by the river blockage. They have warned residents in downstream areas to take necessary precautions, as the collapse of this natural dam could lead to another large-scale flood. Chinese water authorities have also warned of a high risk of dam failure within three days if rainfall continues.

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The amount of water in one naturally formed lake in the area was estimated, and there is a high risk of the dam bursting within three days if it continues to rain.

In response to the crisis, the United Nations has announced an emergency allocation of $2 million from its rapid response fund to support medical aid, temporary shelters, and drinking water provisions. An emergency response team has already been deployed to the affected region, with additional personnel on standby.

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The UN Emergency Response Fund will provide an emergency grant of $2 million (2.7 billion won) for medical aid, temporary shelters, and drinking water in the region.