A new lake formed by a landslide near the Nepal-China border is raising fears of another major disaster after severe flooding in the area. The lake, located in Nepal near the Gyirong port area, has accumulated about 2 million cubic metres of water, while another 3 million cubic metres could enter it over the next three days. Authorities fear the natural dam created by the landslide could fail, unleashing floodwater, mud and rocks downstream.

Drone footage released by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV showed water filling a large depression left by an earlier landslide. According to CCTV, the lake is expanding rapidly and has already begun to overflow. Continued rainfall is forecast in Gyirong County over the next three days, increasing risks of landslides, mudflows and flash floods.

A local Chinese military commander, Chen Shi, said mountain slopes could collapse at any time because roads run along steep mountain edges. Several military units are on standby for rescue and relief operations. Rescue efforts are already being hampered by rugged terrain, expected rain and the risk of further landslides, while authorities closely monitor the lake.