According to an initial assessment by an ICIMOD expert, a landslide near the Bhotekoshi River in Tibet has formed a dam, the breach of which triggered a flash flood in the region earlier this morning. However, there is also talk of an avalanche having caused the blockage, and even of an earthquake recorded in Tibet in the early hours of this morning. It will certainly take some time before the cause is definitively established.

This resulted in catastrophic flooding in areas downstream.  There are reports of a large number of fatalities (at 4.00 pm on 26 August 2026, the official death toll stood at 95), missing persons and injuries. The damage to buildings, infrastructure and fields appears enormous and cannot yet be fully assessed. Many holidaymakers, hikers and pilgrims, particularly in the Kailash region, have been affected.

The government is implementing the first major emergency measures. The available information is still fragmentary and subject to constant change.

ProNepal is attempting to make contact with its partners in Nepal to assess how we can support the immediate relief efforts.

We will provide an update on whether donations will be used for this purpose.