Flood in Bhutan

A major glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) occurred in northern Bhutan on 29–30 October 2026 following the breach of Shintaphu Tsho in Gasa District. The sudden release of an estimated 7.4 million cubic metres of water triggered severe downstream flooding along the Mo and Mochhu river systems, carrying large amounts of sediment and debris.

The districts of Gasa and Punakha were among the worst affected, with significant damage to roads, bridges, hot-spring facilities and irrigation infrastructure. Emergency evacuations were carried out, with no fatalities reported in initial assessments. The flooding also raised concerns in neighbouring India, particularly in West Bengal and Assam, where precautionary evacuations were undertaken. Authorities continue to monitor river levels and the risk of further flooding.