A deadly flash flood near the Nepal-Tibet border on Wednesday may have been triggered when the lower part of a glacier broke off and plunged hundreds of meters into the valley below, experts said Friday, citing satellite imagery from Planet Labs.
The satellite data showed a large ice mass separated from the glacier at an altitude of about 5,800 meters and fell to a lower area, where it melted and generated a massive surge of water. The torrent then carried mud, rocks, and trees, sweeping through populated areas near the Bhotekoshi River and causing severe loss of life and property.
Scientists warn that climate change is increasing the risk of similar events, as rising temperatures make glaciers more unstable. They also stressed the need to strengthen early warning systems and satellite monitoring to mitigate future risks.
Local authorities have deployed rescue teams to search for the missing and assist affected residents. This is one of the most severe flash flood disasters in the region in recent years, drawing international attention to the impact of climate on high-altitude areas.
