Flash Floods in Nepal Leave Hundreds Missing After Catastrophic Earthquake

The Nepal Tourism Board and tourist police are working to verify the safety status of tourists in the affected areas. A total of 341 tourists remain unaccounted for.

The floods were caused by a catastrophic earthquake on Wednesday, which authorities believe triggered an avalanche. This led to the devastating flash floods.

CCTV footage reportedly showed a wall of water and mud hitting buildings near a border crossing.

Ram Kumar Adhikari stated there was "not much info to share at the moment, but yes we have 12 British citizens (supposed) to make entry this morning." Adhikari also claims two Irish nationals and four South African nationals who were on the excursion are believed to be missing.

The Nepal Tourism Board, however, claims 33 people from the UK are among hundreds feared missing. The number of missing people reportedly rose from 384 to 403.

A preliminary check by the Board found 291 foreign nationals had been reported missing in the affected areas. More than 100 still await nationality confirmation.

Among the foreign nationals, 133 were reportedly from India, on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Forty-seven were from the US, 34 from Australia, and 24 from Canada.

The British Embassy in Nepal issued a joint statement with international partners, expressing deep sadness and solidarity. The UK embassy in Nepal stated, "We are deeply saddened by the devastating flooding in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts and surrounding areas."

The embassy added, "Our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster." The embassy encouraged all those in affected areas to follow the guidance of local authorities and official safety advisories as the situation continues to evolve.

The Nepal Tourism Board confirmed it is "working to verify the whereabouts and safety status of tourists and travellers who were in or travelling through the affected areas." Ed Miliband expressed deep concern, stating, "I am deeply concerned to hear of the flash floods on the Nepal-China border. All my thoughts are with those affected and with British nationals in the area and their relatives here at home."