Langtang Lirung glacier collapse triggers deadly floods in Nepal and Tibet

A massive glacier and rock collapse on the northern side of Langtang Lirung has triggered devastating floods across the border region of Nepal and Tibet. The event, which released a high-velocity torrent of debris, mud, and water, was so powerful that seismic stations recorded a 5.2 magnitude signal, initially mistaken for an earthquake.

In Nepal, authorities have identified 734 bodies or human remains, with 2,498 people still missing. On the Tibetan side, Chinese officials reported 16 deaths and 546 people missing. The surge of debris and water traveled at speeds exceeding 180 kilometers per hour, destroying villages, roads, bridges, and hydroelectric dams across a 72-kilometer stretch.

The disaster occurred when the collapse blocked the Lendės River, creating a dam that eventually burst, sending surges into the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river basins. Hydrological data shows water levels in some areas rising by as much as nine meters within 30 minutes. Experts note that the instability of Himalayan glaciers increases the risk of such catastrophic glacial lake outburst floods.