Tourist Board Reports 33 UK Nationals Missing After Nepal-Tibet Flash Floods
British Broadcasting Corporation reports that Nepalese authorities confirm 33 UK nationals are among hundreds feared missing after flash floods near the Nepal-Tibet border.
At least 157 people in Nepal and three in Tibet have been killed, according to Chinese state media, with mudslides burying homes and vehicles in the Nuwakot district of Nepal.
Nepalese police indicate 579 tourists are missing, including 466 foreign nationals from 28 different countries.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has assured that he is in contact with local authorities and is committed to supporting British nationals affected, urging them to "follow guidance from the local authorities and follow our travel advice." The UK Foreign Office is closely collaborating with Nepalese officials "following concerning reports of British nationals who are missing" and encourages Brits to adhere to local guidance and "remain alert to the changing situation."
According to Nepal police:
- 113 of the missing tourists are Nepalese.
- 54 are from the US.
Alpine Eco Trek, an excursion company offering guided expeditions in Nepal, confirmed that they have lost contact with a group of 12 Britons participating in a tour to Mount Kailash who were in the region during the floods. They attempted to charter a rescue helicopter but were unsuccessful due to poor conditions and will continue assisting with rescue efforts on Thursday. The age range of the missing British citizens, per Alpine Eco Trek’s records shared with the Press Association, is from 13 to 65 years old.
Kumar Adhikari, manager of Alpine Eco Trek, expressed his sorrow: "We are in pain at the moment, deep pain." He is slowly communicating with families but has been unable to provide updates, having reached out to the British consulate and shared copies of clients’ passports.
Another tour company affected by the flash floods, Himalayan Glacier US, also reported significant losses.
