China Halts Tibet Rescue Over Flood Risk as Hundreds Remain Missing

China suspended rescue operations in Tibet on Friday due to heightened flood risks after a deadly mudslide near the Nepal border left hundreds missing, state media reported.

A lake formed by debris from the slide has begun overflowing toward areas where rescue teams were working, broadcaster CCTV said. "All rescue teams have been ordered to stand by in place and wait for further instructions," it stated.

Emergency workers who had reached the site were ordered to withdraw one kilometer to safety, according to CCTV. The lake’s water levels are expected to rise over the next three days due to ongoing rainfall, peaking around September 1, increasing the risk of a breach that could send floodwaters downstream, potentially affecting Gyirong Port and other areas, Xinhua reported Thursday.

Engineering teams are closely monitoring the situation, CCTV said. As of Friday, 499 Chinese nationals and 555 foreigners had been evacuated from the disaster zone.

Rescuers are using drone-based 3D modeling, thermal imaging, and manual searches to locate missing individuals, CCTV reported. Chinese President Xi Jinping chaired a meeting of top leaders to assess the response, with state media describing the situation as extremely challenging.

"There are still many hidden dangers of glaciers, ice lakes, and geological disasters in the surrounding area, and rescue is facing great difficulties," Xinhua quoted the leaders as saying.

The mudslide struck Gyirong, a border hub in Tibet, on Wednesday, leaving hundreds unaccounted for. The disaster occurred amid ongoing seasonal rains in the region, which has seen repeated flooding and landslides in recent years.

Officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties or missing persons. The suspension of rescue efforts reflects the growing threat posed by the unstable lake, which could collapse and trigger further flooding.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities warning of potential secondary disasters. Rescue operations may resume once flood risks subside, but no timeline has been provided.