Devastating floods in Nepal have been linked to the collapse of a glacier and the surrounding mountainside on Langtang Lirung, a peak located along the Nepal-Tibet border. The disaster occurred recently when a segment of the glacier gave way, triggering a massive landslide that sent ice, rock, and mud rushing into the river below.

Experts say the region’s mountains have been warming at approximately five times the global average since the 1960s. This accelerated warming has led to a doubling in the rate of ice loss from the glaciers since 2000, increasing the risk of such catastrophic events. The collapse is being viewed by scientists and officials as a direct consequence of climate change.

“We ask the world to recognize climate change as one of the major challenges facing Nepal and its people, and to respond through global cooperation,” said Mr. Khanal, addressing reporters on Saturday.

The floods have left several British tourists unaccounted for, including Neetu Goyal Tiwari, Mala and Bipin Patel, and Sarada Simkhada. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities and international teams work to locate those missing and provide aid to affected communities.

The disaster has renewed calls for heightened awareness and action on climate change, especially in vulnerable regions such as the Himalayas, where glacier retreat and extreme weather events pose increasing threats to local populations and ecosystems.