Tackling climate disasters together, safeguarding our shared future
A recent mudslide at the China-Nepal border, triggered by a glacier collapse, highlights the increasing threat of cascading climate disasters. Experts emphasize that global warming is creating unpredictable, transboundary hazards that require better early warning systems.
Why it matters
The event underscores the urgent need for international cooperation in monitoring and mitigating climate-induced geological risks.
BEIJING , Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from People's Daily
On Aug. 26, a devastating mudslide in Nepal caused heavy casualties and left people missing at the Gyirong port in Gyirong county, Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang autonomous region.
The disaster originated on the Nepali side of a river along the China-Nepal border. At an altitude of about 5,200 meters on the northern slope of Mount Langtang Lirung, a glacier broke apart, triggering an ice-rock avalanche. The avalanche swept up debris and raced roughly 22 kilometers down the mountain, eventually reaching the Gyirong port in China at an altitude of about 1,800 meters.
The entire event unfolded in just six to seven minutes, destroying 27 buildings and associated facilities across an area of about 0.7 square kilometers. The sudden natural disaster caused heavy losses of life and property, drawing deep sorrow from people around the world.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in