A dangerous flood hit northern Nepal after a mountain collapse. In late August, rocks and ice fell into a river near the border. This material blocked the river and created a natural dam. Hours later, the dam broke suddenly. A huge wave of water, mud, and rocks rushed down the valley.
The flood destroyed important bridges, roads, and power stations. More than 1,000 people died, and rescue teams helped many survivors. The disaster also closed an important trade road to Tibet.
Scientists say that warmer weather makes Himalayan ice melt faster. Because the mountains become weak, landslides and floods happen more often. Experts want better warning tools to protect local villages in the future.
Difficult words
- collapse — a sudden falling down of a structure or mountain
- material — substances or physical objects that form something
- survivor — a person who stays alive after a dangerous eventsurvivors
- disaster — a sudden event that causes great damage and death
- expert — a person who has special skill or knowledge in a subjectExperts
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What can people do to stay safe when a flood happens?
- Why is it important to have warning tools for natural disasters?
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