Nepal flood death toll hits 489 as over 1,000 remain missing
Key Takeaways
- At least 489 people have been confirmed dead, with more than 1,000 still missing.
- Rescue teams are searching mud-covered communities and damaged river corridors.
- Authorities are investigating whether an avalanche and temporary debris dam triggered the flooding.
Rescue teams are searching mud-covered communities as authorities investigate what triggered the disaster and warnings emerge of another possible flood.
More than 1,000 people remain missing in Nepal as the death toll from devastating flash floods has risen to at least 489.
Search and rescue teams are combing through mud and debris across affected communities, while fresh warnings have raised fears of another possible deluge.
China said a "barrier lake" created by the first wave of floodwaters and debris was at risk of breaching.
In Nuwakot district, trucks were partially buried in mud and buildings surrounded by debris as police and rescue workers searched the area and helped people to safety.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
Indonesia protesters demand death penalty for corruption
Police said 28 bodies had been recovered in Nuwakot by Thursday evening.
Chitwan recorded the highest death toll, with 137 bodies recovered, while another 87 were found in Nawalparasi East. Rescue teams continue searching devastated river corridors for survivors and bodies.
The flood first tore through Rasuwa before surging downstream through the Trishuli and Narayani river systems. Settlements were destroyed, while roads, bridges and other infrastructure were damaged.
Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology said preliminary satellite imagery suggested an ice and rock avalanche may have blocked the Lhende River upstream.
The blockage may have created a temporary debris dam that later burst, sending water downstream. Some scientists have suggested a collapsed glacier may have caused the disaster.
Officials said the exact cause remained under investigation.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
