Archive · 27 Aug 2026
Nepal-China Border Flood Kills 160, Hundreds Remain Missing
A huge flash flood and landslide struck near the border between Nepal and China.
At least 160 people have died.
Nepal reported that 157 bodies had been recovered, while China reported three deaths in Tibet.
Hundreds of people, including tourists, are still missing.
Rescue workers, soldiers and police are searching for survivors.
Helicopters are being used to reach places that are difficult to access.
Nepal has warned people to stay away from some rivers because more flooding could happen.
Experts are studying whether a glacier collapse or an earthquake helped cause the disaster.
India has sent aid and medicines to Nepal.
At least 160 people have died, including 157 in Nepal and three in China’s Tibet.
Floods and landslides damaged villages, roads, bridges and power projects near the Nepal-China border.
Nepal reported 403 travellers missing, including 341 foreigners and many Indian nationals.
Nepali and Chinese rescue teams are using helicopters and other resources to search for survivors.
The disaster’s cause is under investigation, with a glacier collapse and possible earthquake among the theories.
- Who
- At least 160 people died; hundreds of travellers and residents remain missing. Nepali and Chinese rescue teams are conducting searches.
- What
- A flash flood and landslide swept through areas near the Nepal-China border, causing deaths and extensive damage.
- When
- The disaster was reported in updates last dated August 27, 2026.
- Where
- Affected areas include Nepal’s Trishuli and Nuwakot regions and Tibet in China, near the Nepal-China border.
- Why
- The cause is under investigation; experts cited a possible glacier collapse, while a possible earthquake is also being examined.
Glacier-collapse explanation
Earthquake possibility
Possible cause of the disaster
Glacier-collapse explanation
Experts studying satellite imagery believe a large section of a glacier may have collapsed, triggering an ice-and-rock avalanche.
Earthquake possibility
Authorities and experts are also investigating whether a possible earthquake struck minutes before the flood and landslide.
- Reported deaths
- At least 160: 157 bodies recovered in Nepal and three deaths reported in China’s Tibet.
- Missing travellers
- 403 travellers were reported missing in Nepal, including 341 foreigners.
- Missing Indians
- Reports cited either 142 or at least 133 missing Indians, reflecting a discrepancy between updates.
- Damage
- Villages, roads, bridges and power projects were damaged.
- Rescue response
- Nepal’s Army, police and disaster-response teams are using helicopters; China has also launched search operations.
- Indian assistance
- India sent 10 tonnes of humanitarian aid and essential medicines to Nepal.
- Ongoing danger
- Nepal warned people to stay away from the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers because downstream risks remain.
