A glacial collapse, not an earthquake, triggered catastrophic floods in Nepal and Tibet, according to the US Geological Survey. The agency clarified that initial tremors mistaken for an earthquake were actually caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow, leading to devastating downstream effects. The disaster, which swept through the Himalayan region, has left at least 162 people dead, with the death toll expected to rise.
Rescue operations are underway as hundreds remain missing, including nine Singaporeans and two Irish nationals. The floods, described as flash floods, have caused widespread destruction in the mountainous areas. Local authorities report that the number of victims could increase as search and rescue teams continue their efforts.
The event has drawn international attention, with the UK pledging £5 million in relief aid. The disaster highlights the increasing risk of glacial-related floods in the region, raising concerns about climate change impacts.
Efforts to locate the missing continue, with helicopters and ground teams working in challenging conditions. The scale of the disaster underscores the vulnerability of mountain communities to sudden natural events.
