Nepal and China warned on Thursday of fresh flood risks after a glacial collapse in the Himalayas created two unstable lakes on their shared border that could burst and send millions of cubic meters of water downstream.
The disaster began on Wednesday when a glacier collapse sent rocks, ice, mud and debris cascading into mountain river systems, triggering a catastrophic flood that killed at least 362 people and left about 1,000 missing, according to authorities. Rescue teams in Nepal have since evacuated from high-risk zones as water levels rise behind debris dams and natural barriers.
China’s Ministry of Water Resources said a debris-blocked lake on its side of the border is accumulating water, with an expected peak flow of 3 million cubic meters—roughly the volume of 1,200 Olympic-sized swimming pools—due to reach the lake by September 1. The ministry warned that continued rainfall forecast for next week could further destabilize the barrier, increasing the risk of a sudden rupture.
Aerial images released by Chinese rescue teams showed muddy water submerging vegetation and pressing against a debris-and-stone dam, heightening concerns over structural integrity. Officials in both countries urged residents in low-lying areas along the Trishuli River to remain vigilant and avoid riverbanks.
Nepal’s disaster authority reiterated calls for heightened caution, while Chinese hydrologist Zhu Jinfeng noted that water volume continues to rise alongside the risk of failure. Rescue teams, including a 13-person group led by Pawan Koirala, have withdrawn from the riverbed as conditions remain hazardous.
The disaster has drawn international attention, with state broadcasters in both countries providing live coverage and updates on the evolving situation.
