Nepal flood death toll rises to 359; flash flood threat looms

Rescue teams in Nepal are continuing their search for victims in the Himalayan valleys and hills after devastating floods claimed at least 359 lives, with nearly 1,000 people still unaccounted for. The disaster, triggered by glacier collapses on Wednesday, unleashed a torrent of rocks, ice, and debris that swept through villages and destroyed vital infrastructure along a route frequented by trekkers and pilgrims.

Authorities in both Nepal and China have issued warnings about the possibility of subsequent flash floods due to rising water levels in two lakes. According to officials, the massive flow of water and debris has created a risk of further disaster. One lake, formed by debris blocking the Bhotekoshi River, is reportedly nearing its capacity, with officials concerned about its potential to breach.

On the Chinese side of the border, approximately three million cubic meters of water, equivalent to about 1,200 Olympic-sized swimming pools, are expected to flow into another dammed lake within the next three days. State media reported that the risk of this lake overflowing is high, with peak water flow anticipated around September 1. "The water volume continues to rise, and so does the risk," a researcher from the ministry's hydrology department told state broadcaster CCTV.

Of the nearly 1,000 individuals still missing, at least 540 are foreign nationals. Nepali authorities have deployed helicopters to search for survivors and deliver emergency supplies to thousands of residents cut off in towns and valleys. Rescue teams have also recovered dozens of bodies washed downstream by the floodwaters.

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The water volume continues to rise, and so does the risk.