Hundreds missing, many feared dead after massive flash flood hits Nepal-China border

A massive flash flood and mudslide struck the Nepal-China border region on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, leaving hundreds missing and several confirmed dead. The disaster, believed to have been triggered by a glacial avalanche of ice and rock that blocked the Lhende River, caused a sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River around 9 AM local time. The affected areas include Nepal's Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot districts, as well as China's Gyirong Port in Tibet.

Reports indicate that 384 travelers are missing, comprising 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalese citizens. Among the missing foreigners are 105 Indian tourists, along with individuals from the USA, UK, Malaysia, South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands; many are thought to be pilgrims heading to Kailash Mansarovar. Initial figures confirm at least 8 to 16 fatalities in Nepal, while Chinese state media reported significant casualties in Tibet.

The flash flood caused extensive devastation, washing away villages, police stations, customs offices, and private residences. Critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges (such as the "Friendship Bridge" connecting Nepal and China), and several hydropower projects, suffered severe damage, leading to disruptions in communications and power supplies. Large-scale search and rescue operations are underway, with the Nepal Army deploying helicopters and ground personnel, and Nepal seeking assistance from India and China.