The death toll continues to rise following the devastating flash floods and landslides that hit the Nepal-Tibet border.
On the morning of August 26th, local time, a section of glacier and mountain rock collapsed near Langtang Lirung, the impact of which was registered as the equivalent of a 5.2 magnitude earthquake. The slide of seismic proportions was the catalyst for an avalanche that then sent a deadly wall of water, mud, rock and ice downstream, causing river levels to rise to a reported nine metres in some areas.
As of August 31, the estimated loss of life sits at 804 people, with a further 3000 people missing, including 42 Australians.
Rescue efforts continue on the ground as the search for trapped survivors becomes a race against time, as workers battle unstable terrain, debris and the threat of further flash flooding.
Currently, urgent rescue operations are focused on tunnels at the Trishuli 3A hydroelectric site where more than 100 people are believed to be trapped.
The devastating scale of the disaster has also overwhelmed local morgues with hundreds of bodies recovered downstream, leading authorities to begin mass burials for unidentifiable victims.
The Australian government has mobilised “consular and humanitarian support” with a $5 million assistance package for affected communities.
In a joint statement, Senator Penny Wong and Dr Anne Aly MP confirmed on August 28, “the Government will send an initial team of three humanitarian response specialists within the next 48 hours to help Australian staff already on the ground.”
How To Help Nepal
In the wake of the devastating news, you may feel at a loss for how to help – but assistance is needed from all Australians.
A joint appeal has been established through the Emergency Action Alliance which will see multiple charities, including Save the Children, Caritas, Oxfam and more, come together to raise funds for those affected.
Australians can support the Nepal Flood Disaster Appeal through Emergency Action Alliance website emergencyaction.org.au/ or by calling 1300 939 000.
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