Key facts
- At least 359 people have died in flash floods in Nepal.
- Over 1,300 people are missing, including 33 UK residents.
- The floods were caused by a glacial lake outburst in Tibet.
- King Charles and Queen Camilla expressed their deep sympathy for the victims.
- The UK has offered £5 million in aid to Nepal.
- A seismic event linked to a glacial collapse occurred near the Nepal-Tibet border.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have stated they are "heartbroken" by the deadly flash floods that struck Nepal, near the border with Tibet, following the outburst of a glacial lake. The disaster has resulted in at least 359 confirmed deaths, with over 1,300 people reported missing, including 33 UK residents. Among the missing are a 13-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy, who were part of pilgrimages to Mount Kailash.
The Prince and Princess of Wales also conveyed their shock and sympathy for those affected by the "terrible disaster." The UK has offered £5 million in aid to assist Nepal in its response efforts.
Nepalese authorities are working with the UK Foreign Office, which is liaising with tour companies that have reported missing British nationals. Companies such as Alpine Eco Trek, The Trekkers' Society, Himalayan Glacier US, Kailash Journeys, and Fishtail Tours have indicated that some of their clients are unaccounted for. The region, particularly near the Bhote Koshi river, faces a potential secondary flood risk.
Initial reports suggested an earthquake caused the floods, but further analysis by the US Geological Survey indicated a magnitude 5.2 seismic event, likely triggered by a landslide and glacial collapse, occurred near the border. The affected area is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.