Nepal, already reeling from one of its worst floods in recent memory, is facing the threat of another potentially devastating flood.
More than 350 people have reportedly been killed, while around 1,500 remain missing following the catastrophic flash floods that struck the country.
Amid the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, Chinese authorities have issued a new warning about a newly formed lake in Nepal that could overflow and trigger another major flood.
According to reports citing China Central Television, the lake was formed after the natural flow of a river was blocked by debris, creating a temporary barrier. If the barrier collapses, a huge volume of trapped water could rush downstream and cause severe flooding within the next few days.
China's Ministry of Water Resources estimated that around 2 million cubic metres of water had accumulated in the lake by Thursday morning. Another 3 million cubic metres could potentially accumulate over the next three days.
The lake has reportedly formed near the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers, which originate in Tibet. Before entering Nepal, the rivers merge and become known as the Bhotekoshi River, a major upper tributary of the Trishuli River.
The Chinese authorities said the newly formed lake is being closely monitored. They are assessing the potential consequences of a possible breach and preparing to assist with emergency rescue operations if necessary.
The warning comes just a day after the Bhotekoshi River experienced devastating flash floods, inundating low-lying areas and destroying roads, homes and other infrastructure.
With rescue operations still underway and the death toll already exceeding 350, the possibility of another sudden flood has added a new and serious threat to Nepal's ongoing disaster response.
