The State Department announced that about 80 American citizens remain missing following the catastrophic flood that struck the Nepal‑China border region last Wednesday. The disaster, triggered by a massive glacier‑related slope failure, has claimed at least 903 lives in Nepal and left roughly 4,200 people unaccounted for.
U.S. Response and Assistance
Washington is actively monitoring the situation. A disaster response advisor has been dispatched to the region to coordinate relief operations. Additionally, the State Department confirmed a $500,000 contribution through its global award program with Catholic Relief Services, aimed at providing emergency shelter, essential supplies, and water, sanitation, and hygiene assistance to affected communities.
International Relief Efforts
Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that more than 10,000 individuals have been rescued, including over 323 foreign nationals. About 590 foreign nationals from 39 countries are still missing. Countries and organizations sending aid include India, China, the United Arab Emirates, Myanmar, Qatar, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Republic of Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and various international NGOs.
American Citizens Affected
State Department officials confirmed that 13 American citizens have reached safety in Nepal. Twenty‑two of the missing Americans were part of a pilgrimage organized by a Tennessee‑based nonprofit, the Isha Foundation. They were staying in an immigration building when the flood struck.
Details of the Disaster
According to U.S. Geological Survey investigators, the initial event may have been a landslide involving part of a glacier or a glacial collapse, which generated a magnitude 5.2 earthquake followed by a secondary 4.2‑magnitude tremor three hours later. The resulting debris flow traveled roughly 62 miles downstream, engulfing villages and infrastructure.
Local officials continue to search for missing persons and recover bodies. The situation remains fluid, and the U.S. government urges travelers to stay informed and follow guidance from local authorities.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
