Why Nepal's floods are so catastrophic, according to scientists
According to Professor Liz Stephens, Professor in Climate Risks and Resilience at University of Reading, a 'complex chain of hazards' is likely to blame.
TL;DR
- Devastating flash floods and mudslides have occurred along the Nepal-Tibet border.
- Hundreds of tourists, including from the UK, India, and other nations, are missing.
- Buildings, bridges, and roads have been destroyed, with significant loss of life and property.
- Scientists attribute the catastrophic nature of the floods to a 'complex chain of hazards,' possibly triggered by an earthquake and subsequent ice avalanche that dammed a river.
- The potential role of climate change in increasing the frequency and intensity of such events is being investigated, with rising temperatures linked to melting glaciers and glacial lake outbursts.
- The destruction of the Gyirong Port land crossing in Tibet was captured on video, showing people fleeing before the water hit.
- Flood alerts have been issued for northern Indian states bordering Nepal due to the risk of downstream flooding.
- Authorities have recovered 55 bodies, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing for hundreds more missing individuals.