Death Toll Rises as Search Continues After Himalayan Flood in India

Death Toll Rises as Search Continues After Himalayan Flood in India
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At least 70 people are now confirmed dead following a devastating flood and mudslide that struck the tourist town of Dharali in Uttarakhand, India, on August 5, Arab News reported. Officials report that 68 people remain missing, including 44 Indians, 22 Nepalis, and nine soldiers.

The disaster occurred when a wall of icy water and mud swept through the area, destroying multi-story buildings. Rescue teams are using sniffer dogs and ground-penetrating radar to locate victims amid challenging conditions caused by damaged roads and disrupted communications.

While no official cause has been confirmed, experts believe intense monsoon rains triggered a collapse of debris from a rapidly melting glacier. Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of such disasters by accelerating glacier melt and destabilizing mountain terrain.

Officials warn the event serves as a stark reminder of the growing risks posed by global warming to Himalayan communities and the nearly two billion people dependent on glacier-fed water sources.