Authorities in Nepal warned of potential new flooding on Sunday following a rise in water levels in the Bhotekoshi River. The alert comes as emergency crews continue recovery efforts following a glacial collapse on Wednesday that caused flash flooding across Nepal and Tibet. Residents in affected districts have been urged to remain on high alert, with flood warning notices sent to mobile phones early Sunday morning.
The current situation follows a catastrophic event on Wednesday, which scientists attributed to a bedrock collapse under a Himalayan glacier. The resulting rockfall, which registered as a magnitude 5.2 event, triggered a torrent of melted water and debris. This surge destroyed bridges, homes, and power infrastructure as it moved downstream.
According to Nepal's disaster agency, the confirmed death toll has reached 752 in Nepal, with 2,502 people missing. In Tibet, Chinese authorities reported 16 deaths and 546 missing persons. Among the missing in Tibet are 261 foreigners, including over 100 Nepalis and citizens from more than a dozen other countries who were in the region for work, tourism, or religious pilgrimages. In the Dhading district, residents have begun returning to ruined homes to salvage belongings from mud and rubble.
Residents in these districts face a loss of electricity and the destruction of transportation routes. The Prithivi Highway, a critical supply line for food and fuel entering Kathmandu, remains partially obstructed. The destruction of concrete and suspension bridges has left some communities with less easy access to other areas.
In terms of international response, Malaysia has pledged $1 million in financial aid and announced it will deploy a specialized search-and-rescue team to assist with relief and evacuations. Recovery and repair efforts are ongoing, with workers surveying power plant damage and clearing highway debris. No specific dates for the restoration of power or the completion of highway repairs were reported.