Situation Overview:
A major flash flood struck Rasuwa district after a sudden and intense surge of water entered the Bhote Koshi River from the Tibet (China) side at approximately 9:15 AM. The flood rapidly impacted the Timure, Rasuwagadhi, and Syabrubesi areas, causing significant damage to settlements, markets, police infrastructure, roads, and hydropower facilities.
Authorities have warned that rising water levels could affect downstream communities along the Trishuli River corridor. Preliminary assessments and discussions with scientists from Nepal and China suggest that an ice avalanche may have blocked the Lhende River upstream, triggering a sudden outburst flood. A magnitude 4.4 earthquake was also recorded at 08:37 AM (USGS) prior to the event. While the exact cause remains under investigation, the incident is currently suspected to be a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood
(GLOF) or related high-altitude outburst event.
The flood is suspected to have originated from a high-altitude outburst event upstream in Tibet, although the exact cause remains under investigation. Water levels rose rapidly, with flood waves estimated at 8-10 meters in some locations, resulting in widespread destruction. Authorities have reported severe damage to Timure Market, the Timure Customs Office, the Rasuwagadhi area, and the Syabrubesi settlement. Significant impacts have also been recorded on critical infrastructure, including multiple hydropower projects, notably the Chilime Hydropower Project. In addition, three Nepal Police facilities, namely the Timure Area Police Office, Rasuwagadhi Police Post, and Syabrubesi Police Post, have sustained substantial damage.