A massive flash flood struck the Nepal-Tibet border on 26 August 2026, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds of people missing. The flood began after a huge collapse of ice, rocks and debris in the Himalayan region, sending a powerful flow of water and mud into the Lhende Khola and Bhote Koshi River areas.

The flood badly affected Rasuwa district in Nepal, including Timure and Syafrubesi. Homes, roads, bridges, vehicles and power infrastructure were washed away or buried under mud. Several villages were also affected.

At least 160 people have been confirmed dead, while hundreds remain missing. The exact number is still being verified as rescue teams search the affected areas.

Many foreign tourists are among those missing. A large number of Indian citizens and Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims were travelling through the region when the disaster happened. Officials are still working to confirm their whereabouts.

The disaster also caused major damage on the Tibet side of the border. Three people were reported dead there, while hundreds remained missing.

The Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force have launched a major rescue operation. Fourteen helicopters have been deployed to search for missing people and provide relief, but damaged roads, high water levels and heavy mud are making rescue work difficult.

The exact cause of the disaster is still being investigated. Early reports linked it to a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, but later assessments suggested that the earthquake-like signal may have actually been caused by the landslide itself.

Authorities have also warned that water could be building up behind debris blocking the river, which could lead to another dangerous flood.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and expressed his condolences. India has also sent humanitarian assistance to support Nepal’s rescue and relief efforts.

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• nepal tibet border
• flash flood