The scale of the disaster in the Himalayas is becoming clearer following catastrophic flooding that affected parts of Nepal and Tibet. Scientists believe the flooding was likely triggered by the collapse of a glacier, releasing a torrent of water, mud, and debris that swept away bridges, roads, and entire communities. As of the latest reports, the death toll stands at least 390, with over 1,400 individuals still missing as rescue crews work in challenging terrain.
In the Nuwakot district of Nepal, villages are buried in mud, with sludge reaching rooftops and trapping vehicles. Survivors described the suddenness of the flood's onset. Janak Bahadur, a flood survivor, recounted, "It came in suddenly and exploded like a bomb. The river looked small from a distance, but it suddenly started overflowing and swept through this place."
Geological experts indicated that a glacier collapse approximately 30 miles north of Kathmandu likely caused the disaster. Satellite images show the glacier before and after the collapse, with rivers swollen by floodwaters.
Cell phone footage captured the floodwaters overwhelming a hydroelectric dam and destroying a border crossing between Nepal and Tibet. Nepalese officials reported that the floods have swept away dozens of bridges and damaged about 25 miles of roads, complicating rescue efforts.
The Nepalese army has airlifted over 100 people to safety, while ground crews search through mud with the assistance of search dogs. Many families are anxiously awaiting news of their missing loved ones. Subina Tamang, a wife of a missing man, expressed her hope for her husband's safe return.
The disaster's impact extends to Tibet, where officials are searching for hundreds of missing individuals. A spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry stated that the two countries are coordinating search-and-rescue efforts.
Among the missing are approximately 500 foreign nationals, with the U.S. State Department confirming that three Americans have been rescued. Indian spiritual leader Sadhguru mentioned that a group on a pilgrimage was caught in the floods, including 22 U.S. citizens.
Dan Shugar, director of the waterSHED Lab at the University of Calgary, explained that the flooding may have started when a large chunk of ice broke off a glacier, causing a cascade into the valley below. He noted that the region's steep topography, seismic activity, and human settlements increase vulnerability to such disasters.
Shugar discussed the role of climate change, stating that rising temperatures lead to glacier melting and destabilization of valley walls, contributing to landslides and floods. He emphasized the need for global cooperation to mitigate risks and enhance resilience for communities in these vulnerable areas.
This report was contributed by Niranjan Shrestha and Shristi Kafle of the Associated Press.