Deadly Flood Strikes Nepal–Tibet Border Region

[DLJBSP]

A devastating flash flood struck the Himalayan border region between Nepal and Tibet on Wednesday, leaving at least nine people dead, dozens injured and hundreds missing.

The powerful flood swept away roads, bridges, homes and power projects. A mudslide also struck Gyirong Port, an important border crossing, cutting transportation, electricity and communications in the area.

 

Officials suspect that an earthquake may have triggered an avalanche of ice and rock along the Lhende Khola River. This may have caused the sudden flooding, although the exact cause had not yet been confirmed.

 

384 were reported missing.

 

Rescue efforts remain difficult because of deep sediment, damaged roads and high water. China has sent hundreds of rescuers, while India is coordinating with Nepal on relief efforts. South Korea also plans to send an emergency-response team.

 

Authorities remain concerned that another flood could occur because a blockage is still lodged upstream. People living near the river and in low-lying areas have therefore been moved or warned to remain alert.

 

Events like this remind us how suddenly circumstances can change. Our thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones, those who are still searching for family members and the rescue workers laboring under dangerous conditions. As Jehovah’s Witnesses, we look forward to the time when disasters will no longer bring suffering and fear.—Revelation 21:4.

 

Based on facts reported by Reuters on August 26, 2026.

[Miss Mouse]

I saw this and it showed the massive wall of water coming towards the populated area. One disaster after another.   but it helps us appreciate where

we are in the stream of time. 

[Barbllm]

I just watched a video clip of this. I feel sick. 400 tourists from various nations are missing. 

 

What's astounding to me is those flood waters are moving so quickly that they push a wall of compressed air in front, which in turn pushes dirt and debris ahead of the wave. That's why it looks like it does.

 

 

[BLEmom]

The video is insane. Straight out of an apocalyptic disaster movie. We need the new system so badly. 

[Qapla]

This NBC report includes a video. The sheer devastation is staggering

 

Videos show crushing walls of water overtake buildings and bridges on Nepal-Tibet border

 

Edited 19 hours ago by Qapla

[DLJBSP]

Update, not written as a news story. 

An earthquake has been ruled out and they now believe it was a glacier collapse that triggered the flash flood. https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/glacier-collapse-may-have-triggered-deadly-nepal-flash-flood-experts-say-2026-08-26/?utm_source=jwtalk.net

 

Edited 15 hours ago by Qapla
Removed duplicate word

[DLJBSP]

Nepal–Tibet flash flood (most severe event)

Current reports indicate:

• At least 157 confirmed deaths.
• Hundreds remain missing, including foreign tourists.
• Villages, bridges, highways, and hydropower facilities have been destroyed.
• The disaster is now believed to have been triggered by a massive ice-rock avalanche and landslide rather than an earthquake.

https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/deadly-disasters-himalayas-over-dozen-years-2026-08-26/?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Typhoon Saudel

• Strong winds and heavy rain have affected Japan's Ryukyu Islands.
• Taiwan is preparing for tropical-storm to typhoon conditions.
• Eastern China is expected to face landfall within the next couple of days.

https://www.moodys.com/web/en/us/insights/catastrophe-risk-insights/event-response.html?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Tropical Storm Narra

• Flooding continues in southern China and northern Vietnam.
• Damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure.
• At least one reported fatality.

https://www.moodys.com/web/en/us/insights/catastrophe-risk-insights/event-response.html?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Greece – Extreme wildfire danger

Authorities have issued Code Red wildfire alerts for parts of the Ionian Islands due to hot, dry, and windy conditions.

https://www.euronews.com/2026/08/26?utm_source=JWtalk.net

France – Severe storms

Southern France is recovering from:

• A damaging tornado.
• Large hail.
• Winds exceeding 70 mph (117 km/h).
• Damage to more than 300 homes and widespread power outages.

https://www.moodys.com/web/en/us/insights/catastrophe-risk-insights/event-response.html?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Pakistan – Hospital fire

A hospital fire reportedly killed 14 newborn babies. Authorities are investigating the cause.

https://www.euronews.com/2026/08/26?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Haiti – Gang attack

A large gang attack reportedly left at least 47 people dead and more than 50 kidnapped.

https://www.euronews.com/2026/08/26?utm_source=JWtalk.net

Colombia – Magnitude 5.1 earthquake

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake shook central Colombia, prompting evacuations in Bogotá and Bucaramanga. No major damage or fatalities have been reported.

https://www.euronews.com/2026/08/26/51-magnitude-earthquake-hits-colombia-forcing-evacuations-in-bogota-and-bucaramanga?utm_source=JWtalk.net

 

 

[Dages]

Japan has warning again because of flooding.

But yeah, the Nepal videos are awful, we see people being crushed...

[Dré]

Yesterday, after the announcement at the congregation meeting, we received these instructions.

 

INFORMATION SHEET

No Heating or Electricity During Winter

 

HOME OR APARTMENT

Do not try to heat the entire house or apartment.

Insulation: Choose the smallest, driest room (in the center of the home, away from exterior corner walls). Close the doors tightly and cover them with thick blankets.

Windows: During the day, open the curtains if the sun is shining. After sunset, close the windows tightly (with curtains, blankets, plastic sheeting, or cardboard).

Radiators: Even if the radiators are barely warm, attach foil (or a heat-reflective screen) behind them. This will direct heat into the room rather than toward the exterior wall.

Micro-shelter: Inside the room, you can set up a tent or create a “cocoon” of blankets over the bed. The temperature inside will be 5–7 °C higher.

Sleeping area: Place as many layers as possible under the mattress on the bed (sleeping mats, old blankets, or even corrugated cardboard) to create insulation between the mattress and the cold air below.

Hot-water bottles: Fill plastic bottles with hot water (60–70 °C), wrap them in cloth, and place them in your bed or under your clothing.

LED strips / USB LED lights: They consume minimal power from a power bank but provide diffused light for a long time.

 

KEEPING YOUR BODY WARM

Layering: It is better to wear three thin layers than one thick one.

Layer 1: Thermal underwear or close-fitting clothing (wicks away moisture).

Layer 2: Fleece or wool (retains heat).

Layer 3: A loose-fitting jacket or vest.

Head and neck: Up to 30% of body heat is lost through the head. Wear a fleece hat and scarf even indoors.

Feet: Wear two pairs of socks (thin + wool) and indoor footwear with thick soles. The cold comes from the floor.

 

FOOD AND DRINK

Warm yourself from the inside: Drink warm tea, broth, or simply hot water. Eat high-calorie foods (fats and proteins).

Thermos: If you can heat water (on a gas burner or over a fire), immediately pour it into a thermos.

 

SUPPLIES

Sleeping bags rated for below-freezing temperatures.

A tent large enough to accommodate the family.

Chemical hand and foot warmers (self-heating packs).

High-capacity power banks.

Gas burner + canisters: for heating food.

 

DEALING WITH DAMP AND CONDENSATION

In a cold, enclosed room, moisture from people's breathing accumulates quickly. Dampness = cold.

Ventilation: Open a window for 2–3 minutes several times a day. Cold, dry air warms up faster than humid, heavy air.

Collecting moisture: If possible, place containers of salt or baking soda in the corners — they will absorb some of the excess moisture.

 

PROTECTING PLUMBING

If the temperature indoors falls below freezing, water in the pipes can freeze and rupture them.

Draining water: If the heating is off for a long time, drain the water from the system (if you live in a private house) and from the toilet tank.

Antifreeze for water traps: A salt solution or a special non-freezing compound can be poured into the traps of toilets and sinks so that the “water seal” does not freeze.

 

SAFETY

Carbon monoxide: Do not use gas stoves, generators, or “potbelly stoves” for heating in apartments without special ventilation. This is life-threatening.

Carbon monoxide detector: If your budget allows, buy a battery-powered standalone carbon monoxide (CO) detector. It can literally save lives because carbon monoxide is odorless.

Candles: Do not leave burning candles unattended, and do not sleep with them burning.

Gas canisters for camping heaters: Do not store spare canisters in the cold. If they are brought into a warm place, the sudden temperature change and expansion of the gas may cause them to explode.

 

USEFUL PRINCIPLES

w11 1/12 — Coping With Natural Disasters

g17 No. 5 2017 — When Disaster Strikes—Steps That Can Save Lives

mvs.gov.ua — How to Keep Your Home Warm When There Is No Electricity or Heating: Basic Rules

acc-company.com.ua — What to Do During Emergency Heating Supply Shutdowns

 

February 2026

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

INFORMATION SHEET

Preparing for Possible Water Supply Disruptions

 

Tips to Help You Prepare for Temporary Water Supply Interruptions

 

Individual Supplies

Drinking water: Store a supply for drinking and food preparation — approximately 3 liters per person per day, for a minimum of 5–7 days.

Store water in a clean container in a dark, cool place.

Mark the date when the water was collected and regularly replenish your supply.

 

Utility Water

Keep available containers filled: jars, canisters, and, if necessary, the bathtub.

This water will be needed for hygiene, cleaning, and sanitation.

Use water from the bathtub as a last resort.

 

Water Treatment Supplies

Have a portable water filter or a supply of water-disinfection tablets.

Whenever possible, boil water before use.

 

Tips for Saving Water

Use spray bottles or wet wipes for washing your hands or dishes — this helps reduce water consumption.

During periods of critical water shortage, use disposable dishes to minimize the need for washing.

 

General Principles

Keep drinking water and utility water separate.

Prepare your supplies in advance rather than at the last minute.

Use water sparingly and check the condition of your supplies.

 

Useful Materials

g 6/15, pp. 3–4, subheading: “Water supply”

g97 11/22, p. 11, “Six Ways to Protect Your Health”

 

Edited 7 hours ago by Dré

[DLJBSP]

Latest Update

 

• Confirmed deaths: at least 165
• Missing: nearly 1,500 people

[Barbllm]

From the news reports that I read, it was the collapse of a glacier ice wall that triggered the flooding.

 

Someone did a Google Earth analysis of a building situated near two rivers. The floodwaters overwhelmed it and it was an 8-story building.