Fresh flood risk persists downstream of Nepal’s Bhote Koshi as new lake forms

Account subscription benefits alongside Premium Stories, Editorials, Opinions and more. Unlock these with Subscription

An area covered in mud and silt washed along the devastating flash flood near Trishuli Dam, in Nuwakot district, Nepal, on August 27, 2026. | Photo Credit: PTI

A fresh flood risk persists in downstream areas of the Bhote Koshi River in Nepal's Rasuwa district after a new barrier lake formed near the river's source, with Chinese authorities warning that the lake could breach, officials said on Thursday.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) said it had received information from the Chinese side about the formation of a lake at a river blockage site near the Nepal-China border.

The information was conveyed to Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the Chinese government, according to the department.

Chinese authorities have estimated that around 2 million cubic metres of water had accumulated in the lake by Thursday (August 27, 2026) morning, while another 3 million cubic metres could enter it over the next three days, raising concerns about a possible breach.

The lake has formed near the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers in Nepal. The two rivers originate in Tibet and flow into Nepal, where they form part of the Bhote Koshi river system.

The development comes a day after a devastating flash flood swept through central Nepal, killing hundreds.

ALSO WATCH Before & after: Satellite images reveal Nepal flood devastation

The DHM's Flood Forecasting Division has warned that the risk of another flood remains in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river areas, and urged people to stay away from the rivers and remain in safe places until further notice.

The department has also asked people living in downstream areas of the Bhote Koshi River to take precautionary measures and stay away from river banks.

Travellers, security personnel and those involved in search and rescue operations have also been advised to remain alert in view of the potential danger.

Chinese authorities are monitoring the lake and conducting flood simulations and risk assessments to determine the possible consequences of a breach and prepare for emergency response.

Meanwhile, during an all-party meeting called by Rabi Lamichhane, president of Nepal’s ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party, on Thursday, political leaders cutting across party lines called for diplomatic consultations with China to tackle cross-border glacier risks and recommended establishing a robust disaster management system.