5 days ago

Nepal and China Warn of Fresh Himalayan Flood Threats

Nepal and China Warn of Fresh Himalayan Flood Threats
Nepal, China warn of fresh flood threat as Himalayan lakes swell to dangerous levels - Telegraph India · telegraphindia.com

A huge flood hit areas near Nepal and China.

Reports said at least 362 or 389 people died, and nearly 1,000 people were still missing.

Nepal and China said a collapsing glacier helped cause the flood.

The collapse pushed rocks, ice, mud and other debris into rivers.

The debris blocked rivers and formed lakes that are filling with water.

Officials warned that the lakes could break through their barriers and cause more flooding.

China said about 3 million cubic meters of water could enter one lake in three days.

More rain could make the danger worse.

Rescuers and residents were told to move away from rivers and dangerous areas.

Key facts

Reported deaths
One report said at least 389 people were killed; another reported at least 362 deaths.
Missing people
Nearly 1,000 people remained missing after Wednesday’s flood.
Water threat in China
About 3 million cubic meters of water were expected to enter a dammed lake over three days.
Expected peak flow
Chinese authorities expected peak flow around September 1.
Main cause cited
Nepal and China blamed a glacier collapse that pushed rock, ice, mud and debris into river systems.
Weather outlook
Rainfall was forecast over the coming week and could worsen the threat.
Response
Chinese authorities monitored the lakes and conducted flood simulations and risk assessments; some Nepalese rescuers moved to higher ground.

Quotes

Nepal's disaster authority

Nepalese government disaster-response authority

“Residents of the lower banks... passengers, rescuers engaged in rescue operations, and all concerned are requested to exercise special caution and stay in safe places away from the river banks and risky areas.”
deccanchronicle.com telegraphindia.com
“We are here for rescue and don't want to be near the danger zone.”
deccanchronicle.com

Zhu Jinfeng

Researcher in the Chinese water resources ministry's hydrology department

“The volume of water is continuing to increase, and so is the risk.”
deccanchronicle.com telegraphindia.com

Flood survivor

Survivor interviewed in Timure, Nepal, after the flood

“They all died and I lived”
telegraphindia.com

Sources

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