Death toll from flash floods in Indian Himalayan climbs to 74, scores missing

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Reuters or enjoy below

🗞️ Driving the news: Flash floods caused by a glacial lake bursting its banks in the Himalayas have resulted in the death of 74 individuals, with 101 still missing
• Torrential rains in the northeastern state of Sikkim led to torrents from Lohnak Lake damaging a dam and causing destruction in villages and Rangpo town, near the state capital of Gangtok

🔭 The context: The calamity follows a series of natural disasters in the Himalayan region driven by extreme weather events
• The region is further characterized by communication barriers, bad weather, and damaged roads, which are impeding search and rescue operations

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Such extreme weather events highlight the environmental challenges faced in the Himalayan region and the vulnerability of communities living in these areas
• These challenges are only intensifying with climate change

⏭️ What's next: Restoration of road connectivity is a priority, with federal cabinet secretary emphasizing the urgent need to evacuate people
• Portable bridges, known as Bailey bridges, will be launched where bridges have been destroyed

💬 One quote: “Had we not left for another two minutes, we might have drowned,” (Mukesh Kumar, a migrant worker in Rangpo)

📈 One stat: Sikkim received 101 mm (four inches) of rain in the first five days of October, which is more than double the usual levels

Click for more news covering the latest on climate change