Flash Flood on Nepal–Tibet Border Leaves Hundreds Missing

KATHMANDU -A sudden flash flood on the Nepal–Tibet border has left hundreds of travellers missing, including at least 291 foreign tourists. Officials say the flood came without warning after a large surge of water rushed down from the mountains early in the morning.

Nepal’s tourism board reports that at least 17 people have died, and the number may rise as rescue teams reach damaged areas. The list of missing people includes more than 100 travellers from India, 12 from the UK, and many others from different countries.

Verified videos from the region show a bridge being swept away, multi‑storey buildings collapsing, and homes submerged in muddy water. In Nuwakot district, floodwater entered houses and caused heavy damage to roads and local markets.

Nepal’s foreign minister said early reports suggest the disaster may have started with an earthquake‑triggered avalanche high in the mountains. The avalanche may have blocked a river, creating pressure that suddenly burst and caused the flash flood.

Rescue teams are working along the riverbanks, but strong currents and broken roads are slowing their progress. People living near the river have been asked to move to higher and safer areas.