State Department Updates on Americans in Nepal Post-Flooding
The U.S. State Department announced on Tuesday that approximately 70 Americans are still unaccounted for in the area along the Nepal-China border, following severe flooding that occurred last month. Fortunately, 18 Americans have been confirmed safe after making it to safety.
A spokesperson for the State Department expressed their condolences, stating, “We extend our deepest sympathy to all those affected by the flooding in Nepal and their families. We also reaffirm our ongoing friendship with the Nepali people.” The department is maintaining communication with the families of those who are still missing and promises to provide updates as more information becomes available.
As of now, officials have confirmed that no American deaths have been reported. The number of unaccounted Americans decreased from 75 to 70, while those confirmed safe increased from 16 to 18. Authorities are urging citizens not to travel to the disaster zone, as the area is still at risk for more flash floods and landslides.
Rescue operations are focused on locating workers trapped in three hydropower project tunnels, particularly at the Chilime hydroelectric project, where many may be beneath debris following the August 26 glacier collapse that triggered the flooding.
The tragic event has claimed at least 1,399 lives in Nepal and the neighboring Tibet region of China, with over 5,400 people still reported missing. Both Nepalese and Chinese officials are attributing the glacier collapse to climate change.
Rescuers are using zip lines to transport individuals trapped by the flooding, as efforts continue to locate survivors amid the devastation.
