High breach risk as barrier lake forms at Nepal river confluence

A significant barrier lake has formed near the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers in Nepal, with authorities warning of a high risk of breach over the next three days.

China’s Ministry of Water Resources estimated the lake’s water volume at around 2 million cubic metres as of the morning of August 27, noting that it was already overflowing, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Another 3 million cubic metres of water is expected to enter the lake over the next three days.

The ministry is closely monitoring the lake and conducting flood simulations and risk assessments to prepare for a possible breach and support emergency rescue operations.

Chinese authorities have mobilised rescue teams following a devastating mudslide that originated on the Nepalese side of the China-Nepal border and struck Gyirong Port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region.

Emergency responders, People’s Liberation Army personnel, engineering teams, telecommunications operators and relief organisations have deployed personnel, aircraft, equipment and supplies to the disaster zone as rescuers contend with difficult terrain, continued rainfall and the risk of secondary disasters.

As of Thursday morning, three people had been confirmed dead, two rescued and 558 remained missing, including 260 foreign nationals.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov