A violent flood has hit northern Nepal, near the border with Tibet, leaving a provisional toll of at least 55 dead and more than 400 missing, including two Spaniards. The water burst with enormous force into a Himalayan valley and destroyed settlements, buildings, vehicles and infrastructure in its path.
The Nepal Police have released images showing a gigantic body of water advancing through the narrow valley of the mountainous district of Rasuwa, north of Kathmandu. Authorities have ordered evacuations in areas near the river and are deploying rescue teams to try to locate the missing. The flood has also affected an area very frequented by tourists and pilgrims.
Nepalese authorities are still investigating the origin of the flood and have pointed to an earthquake-related phenomenon among the possible causes. Meanwhile, the search work continues in a badly damaged area with significant access difficulties.
EU ACTIVATES COPERNICUS TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY
The European Union activated the Copernicus satellite system on Wednesday to map the affected areas. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has shown her solidarity through a message on social networks: «Devastating floods have hit communities in Nepal and China», and has expressed her support for families who have lost loved ones or who are still waiting for news.
https://x.com/vonderleyen/status/2092607137989984408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
The EU mission in Nepal has also called on those in the affected areas, especially in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, to follow the instructions of local authorities and official safety recommendations as the emergency continues to evolve.
