Nepal flood death toll rises, over 1,300 missing

The death toll from catastrophic flash flooding in Nepal has risen, with over 1,300 people now missing, including at least 700 foreign nationals. The disaster struck on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction across the region.

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The strong currents wreaked havoc across the area, leaving 400 pilgrims and 105 Indian tourists also missing in the Nepal floods.

Search and rescue operations are facing significant challenges due to a severe lack of communication, electricity, and essential resources. The Rasuwagadhi border point on the Nepal-Tibet border has been described as a scene of horrific flooding, with strong currents wreaking havoc. Reports indicate that 400 pilgrims and 105 Indian tourists are among those missing.

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Landslides have created a new lake, increasing the risk of further debris flows and flash floods.

Compounding the crisis, landslides triggered by heavy rainfall have formed new lakes. Chinese state media reported that these displaced earth formations have created unstable dams, increasing the risk of further debris flows and flash floods. Heavy rain is forecast to continue over the next three days, exacerbating the dangerous conditions.

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The catastrophe was triggered by a glacier collapse and a subsequent landslide.

Scientists are working to determine the exact cause of the disaster. The U.S. Geological Survey suggested the catastrophe was triggered by a glacier collapse followed by a landslide. A citizen of Kazakhstan is also reported missing after being part of a tourist group that crossed from Nepal into China. Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has sent condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the mudslides in the Xizang Autonomous Region.

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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has sent a telegram of condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the tragic consequences of the massive mudslides in the Xizang Autonomous Region.