Nepal flash floods: At least 3 Americans, 12 Britons among hundreds missing after devastating floods

At least three Americans and a dozen British citizens are among hundreds of people reported missing after devastating flash floods struck Nepal.

At least 95 people have been confirmed dead, while hundreds remain unaccounted for as rescue teams work across areas hit by flooding, landslides and an ice-rock avalanche.

Torrential floods swept away roads, bridges, homes and hydropower projects in Nepal’s border areas. A massive mudslide also hit Gyirong Port, a major land crossing between Nepal and neighbouring Tibet, disrupting roads, communications and power links.

What caused the calamity?

Authorities suspect an earthquake may have triggered an ice-rock avalanche into the Lhende Khola river, causing a sudden surge of water and debris.

The river flows through both Nepal and Tibet, and the resulting flooding has affected communities and infrastructure on both sides of the border.

Are any foreigners missing?

At least 384 travellers have reportedly been reported missing, including 105 Indians, 93 Nepalis, three U.S. citizens and 12 British citizens.

Eight South Koreans working at a hydropower project are also unaccounted for.

The missing include 17 Malaysian nationals, four South Africans, and one person each from Australia and the Netherlands.

Has the danger passed?

Authorities have warned that another flood could occur because a blockage remains upstream on the Lhende Khola river.

Flood alerts have also been issued in the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which border Nepal. Several rivers originating in the Himalayas flow south into the plains of these states.

What is the situation now?

Police and military personnel have been deployed for rescue and relief operations. Officials have said rescue helicopters may not be able to land in some affected areas until floodwaters recede.

Residents in low-lying areas are being moved to safer locations, while people living near the river have been advised to remain alert.

How is the rescue effort progressing?

China has deployed at least 574 rescuers to the affected land crossing, but thick flood sediment is making rescue operations difficult.

Other countries have also offered assistance.

India is coordinating closely with Kathmandu on rescue and relief efforts. South Korea has also announced plans to send a rapid-response team made up of government officials, firefighters and police personnel.

With ageny inputs