Nepal Tibet border flash flood

On August 26, 2026, a massive flash flood swept through the Bhote Koshi river in central Nepal near the China — Tibet border, affecting the districts of Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot. The flood, which occurred around 9 a.m. local time, was reportedly triggered by a glacier collapse or ice-rock avalanche on the Nepali side, possibly exacerbated by an earthquake in the region. The disaster caused extensive devastation, washing away villages, vehicles, goods, and a newly constructed bridge, and damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects, including eight operational ones with a combined capacity of 354 MW. As of the latest reports, at least seven people have been confirmed dead, with nearly 400 people missing, including 105 Indian nationals and 37 NRIs, many of whom were pilgrims on the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. The Nepal government, including the Nepal — Nepali Army, India — Central Armed Police Forces, and Nepal — Nepal Police, has mobilized rescue and relief operations, with helicopters deployed to affected areas. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal's Prime Minister Balen Shah, offering condolences and all possible humanitarian assistance, with India — Indian Air Force aircraft and NDRF teams on standby. The exact cause of the flood is still under investigation, with experts pointing to climate change as a potential contributing factor.