‘Another flood may hit within 72 hours’: China warns Nepal after deadly flash floods

BEIJING: Nepal is still reeling from the flash floods along the China-Nepal border that have claimed 359 lives. Amid the crisis, China has issued another warning, saying a newly formed lake could burst within the next 72 hours and trigger another flood.

According to a report by Chinese state media citing the country’s Ministry of Water Resources, the lake has formed at the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers in Chinese-controlled territory. The warning was issued as authorities stepped up rescue operations in Nepal and sought to prevent another disaster.

As many as 558 people are reportedly missing in Tibet. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said 100 Chinese nationals were among those missing. China Central Television (CCTV) reported that residents of villages in the affected area had been evacuated and two villagers had been rescued.

In Nepal, around 1,500 people are still reported missing following the disaster. Among them are 288 Indians, while 826 foreign nationals are also missing. Indians make up the largest group among the missing foreigners.

China said it has intensified monitoring of the newly formed lake, which currently holds around two million cubic metres of water. The lake is already overflowing, and authorities have warned that another three million cubic metres of water could flow into it within 72 hours, raising the possibility of a breach.

Fire and rescue teams from Beijing and Chengdu have also been sent to assist local police and security forces with rescue operations. Power and communication services near Gyirong town have been restored, but the situation remains disrupted in the port area.