Nepal flash floods: Did earthquakes trigger the avalanche that left at least 22 dead and hundreds missing?

Several visuals from Nepal have emerged online, as an avalanche of ice and rock triggered massive flash floods in the Himalayan country on Wednesday. Rasuwa district, bordering Tibet, remains the worst affected, with villages and infrastructure swept away. Primary reports claim that an earthquake might have caused the avalanche on the Lhende Khola river, which runs through both Nepal and Tibet, leading to severe flooding in the region, according to a Reuters report.

Earthquake or avalanche? Reason behind Nepal flash floods

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal told Parliament that initial reports suggested an earthquake in the affected region may have triggered an avalanche, which in turn led to the floods, as per local media.

Scientists are said to be examining a potential link between an ice avalanche and the sudden surge of water. Rijan Bhakta Kayastha, professor at Kathmandu University and climate researcher, said a preliminary assessment suggested that an ice avalanche may have blocked the Lhende River, causing water to accumulate before the blockage gave way. Kayastha mentioned that the consequent events might have sent a sudden surge downstream in the Bhotekoshi River, according to a report by the Kathmandu Post.

Kayastha said the assessment was based on preliminary findings and discussions with scientists in Nepal and China. He also noted that an earthquake struck the Tibetan side around the same time. The US Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Tibetan territory at 8:37 AM, around 47 kilometres north of Gosainkunda.

Floods in Nepal

According to AFP, the flood surged through the Bhotekoshi River at around 9 AM local time after originating from the Tibetan side, affecting Rasuwa and Dhading districts, which border Tibet, as well as Nuwakot district, southwest of Kathmandu.

22 killed, 348 missing

The flood has killed at least 22 people, according to Reuters. As many as 348 travellers, including 105 Indians, 93 Nepalis, three US citizens, and 12 British citizens, have been reported missing so far. Hundreds are feared missing while widespread damage to the region is being reported by multiple media outlets.

Rescue efforts in full swing

Rescue efforts are currently underway. Police and military personnel have been deployed. However, officials have said rescue helicopters would not be able to land until the waters recede from the flooded areas.

Reportedly, those living in low-lying areas were being moved to safer, higher ground. On the other hand, those residing along the river have been advised to remain alert.

It is said that China has deployed at least 574 rescuers to the land crossing in an effort to rescue those stranded in the region.

India has also extended help by coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.

Conveying condolences over the loss of lives due to floods, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X, “Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.”

More flood warnings

However, the danger hasn't passed yet. Authorities have warned of a second flood, which may occur as a blockage remains lodged upstream on the Lhende Khola river.

Meanwhile, flood alerts have also been issued in India, including in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which border Nepal.

The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 AM local time. It has destroyed several villages, roads and hydropower projects, officials said.