The Sri Lankan Embassy in Kathmandu has issued a safety advisory to Sri Lankan nationals in Nepal following a sudden flash flood that entered Nepal from the Tibetan side through the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa District.

According to the Embassy, the flash flood has caused significant damage to settlements in the Timure and Syabrubesi areas, while raising serious safety concerns along downstream sections of the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers.

Sri Lankan nationals currently travelling or residing in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan, and other areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river corridors have been urged to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant.

The Embassy has advised Sri Lankans to avoid travelling close to rivers, riverbanks, bridges and low-lying areas, follow instructions issued by local authorities and security agencies, and remain in safe locations until the situation becomes clearer.

Those in affected areas have also been urged to check road conditions before undertaking any journey and not to attempt to cross flooded roads, streams or rivers. They have been advised to move immediately to higher and safer ground if instructed by local authorities.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankans planning to travel to the affected districts have been advised to postpone their journeys until official sources confirm that road conditions are safe and the flood threat has subsided.

Sri Lankan nationals requiring assistance have been asked to contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Kathmandu.

The Embassy's 24-hour emergency hotline is +977 9851048653, while assistance is also available via: slemb.kathmandu@mfa.gov.lk.