At least 31 people killed as massive flash flood devastates villages in Nepal and Tibet
A powerful flash flood struck the Himalayan region, killing at least 31 people and leaving hundreds of tourists missing near the China-Nepal border. The disaster, triggered by an earthquake-induced landslide that blocked the Bhote Koshi River, sent a torrent of water downstream, devastating villages in Nepal's Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts. Nepal's tourism board reported that 384 travelers, including 291 foreign nationals, are currently unaccounted for. Among the missing are several Americans and dozens of British citizens. The Red Cross is deploying emergency teams to provide water, shelter, and first aid to the affected areas. The flooding also impacted Tibet, where Chinese state media warned of major casualties. Chinese leader Xi Jinping urged all-out search efforts as mudslides hit the Gyirong port. Prime Minister Balendra Shah has instructed the military and police to join rescue operations. The administration announced that roads leading to the Gyirong port would be close to non-emergency vehicles for seven days to facilitate emergency response.