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China Warns Nepal of Potential Second Flood from Glacial Lake

Published 29 August 2026

China has warned Nepal of a potential secondary flood threat from a temporary lake formed by a glacial collapse that triggered deadly Himalayan flash floods earlier this week. The lake, containing an estimated 2.5 million cubic metres of water, could breach its natural dam at any time, though Chinese authorities indicated a major downstream surge was unlikely. The warning was communicated to Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Chinese officials reported that the lake's water level has been gradually rising and its colour has been steadily darkening, which could indicate an increased risk of a breach.

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