Nepal's flood-hit regions are facing another possible threat as authorities warn of rising water flow in the Bhote Koshi River. The alert comes at a time when rescue teams are already struggling to reach thousands of people missing after devastating flash floods near the Nepal-Tibet border.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has asked residents living close to the river in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading to remain cautious. The District Administration Office in Rasuwa received information about an increase in the river's flow and sound, prompting authorities to issue the warning.
Death toll reaches 675
The latest disaster has killed at least 675 people across eight districts, while more than 2400 people are still missing.
Chitawan has reported the highest number of recovered bodies at 246, followed by Nawalparasi East with 165. Bodies have also been recovered from Nawalparasi West, Gorkha, Dhading, Nuwakot, Tanahu and Rasuwa as search teams continue their work.
Around 2500 people, including 163 foreigners, have so far been evacuated. More than 11,000 security personnel have been deployed, including over 5000 Nepal Army personnel.
Rain could complicate rescue mission
The rescue operation faces another hurdle in the form of worsening weather. Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast rain and thunderstorms in several provinces.
Meteorologist Hari Prasad Dahal said moderate rainfall was likely in most parts of the Bhotekoshi-affected areas of Rasuwa, with isolated heavy rain also possible. Such conditions could make it harder for teams to search damaged and remote areas.
The floods were triggered after an ice-rock avalanche caused by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border sent huge volumes of water, mud and debris downstream, destroying settlements and damaging hydropower facilities.
China warns of another flood risk
China has also raised concerns about a new barrier lake forming near the river's source in Tibet. If the lake breaches, downstream parts of Nepal could face another round of flooding.
India expands relief and rescue support
India has sent 68.5 tonnes of relief material to Nepal so far, including a fresh 11-tonne consignment carried by an IAF C-130J aircraft. The latest shipment included rescue equipment, forensic resources and DNA-analysis equipment.
India is also coordinating with Nepal and China to assist affected Indian nationals. More than 275 Indians remain missing, while 108 have been rescued.
With the Bhote Koshi warning, rainfall forecast and barrier-lake threat all unfolding alongside the ongoing search, Nepal's rescue mission now faces a race against both time and nature.