Dozens of US and Canadian citizens missing after flash flooding in Nepal

Dozens of Americans and Canadians are among hundreds of people who are missing following a deadly flash flood and mudslide near the Nepal-Tibet border, Nepali authorities say.

More than 150 people are so far known to have died, according to the authorities.

The US State Department said it was aware that Americans were impacted by Wednesday’s floods but did not provide numbers.

It added that the US embassy in Nepal is working closely with local tour agencies and authorities to assist affected Americans, a spokesperson said.

Canada’s foreign office said it was also monitoring developments and was ready to provide assistance if needed.

According to Nepal police, 579 tourists are missing – including 466 who are foreign nationals and from 28 different countries.

They include 54 people from the US, more than 100 from India, 33 from the UK and more than 100 from Nepal.

The State Department did not provide figures or additional details regarding the Americans affected for privacy reasons.

A further 24 Canadians are also missing, a Nepal Tourist Board spokesperson said.

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said his government was closely following the situation.

“As rescue efforts continue, Canada stands ready to provide support,” Carney wrote on X.

The prime minister said all Canadians in the region should sign up for Registration of Canadians Abroad, a free service that lets the federal government contact and assist citizens during an emergency in other countries.

The BBC has contacted Canada’s foreign office for further details.