Death toll reaches 100 in flash floods and GLOF events in Sikkim and West Bengal, India

As of October 15, 2023, devastating flash floods and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) have resulted in 100 fatalities in the states of Sikkim and West Bengal in northeastern India. The events, which began on October 4 along the Teesta River, have also left 76 people missing, 30 injured, and have displaced 2 321 individuals into 20 relief camps.

Beginning October 4, 2023, Sikkim and West Bengal experienced destructive flash floods and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) along the Teesta River. As reported by the National Emergency Response Centre (NDMI), the current death toll stands at 100: 38 in Sikkim and 62 in West Bengal. Districts most affected include Namchi, Gangtok, Mangan, and Pakyong.

Visuals from Army search operation site as Sikkim becomes the recent victim of Himalayan Tsunami pic.twitter.com/H0cx0aVwKI

— Weatherman Shubham (@shubhamtorres09) October 5, 2023

Displacement has been significant, with 2 321 people moved to 20 relief camps. The overall affected population is estimated at 88 400, and property damage includes the destruction of over 2 002 houses. Additionally, 76 people remain unaccounted for, and 30 have been confirmed injured.

While the situation in West Bengal may stabilize, as no further rainfall is forecasted for the next 24 hours, Sikkim faces the prospect of light rainfall, adding to the urgency of relief efforts.

Read more:

Devastating flash flood in Sikkim’s Lachen Valley leads to widespread damage, 77 deaths and 100 missing, India

References:

¹  India – Flash floods, update – DG ECHO – October 16, 2023

Featured image credit: NationalDefence (stillshot)

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