What we know
- Prime Minister Balendra Shah will address the United Nations General Assembly on September 24 regarding Nepal’s recent flood, according to Nepali Times.
- The Bhote Kosi-Trisuli Flood on August 26 is described as a global warning about warming, not just a local disaster.
- The cost of the recent disaster is estimated at $4.7 billion by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).
- The Himalaya region is warming 0.7°C faster than the global average of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, based on Nepali Times reporting.
- Record high temperatures, including 5°C at 5,200m on Langtang Lirung, contributed to permafrost melting and bedrock fracturing, preceding a rock slide.
What this means if you are travelling
- Travellers should be aware that discussions about climate change and its impact on Nepal's mountains are ongoing at an international level.
- The August 26 Bhote Kosi-Trisuli Flood affected specific areas; however, the broader message concerns potential future events across the Himalaya.
- Those planning treks in regions like Langtang should note that permafrost melt and slope instability are identified factors in recent incidents.
- It is advisable for all travellers to stay informed about weather advisories and consult with their trekking operators for the latest route conditions.
- Current travel plans might not be immediately affected by this diplomatic discussion, but the underlying climate issues are relevant to long-term safety and trekking conditions in Nepal.
Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, where he will discuss the recent flood in Nepal as a global warning about climate change, according to the Nepali Times. This will be his first international trip, occurring exactly one month after the China-Nepal flood on August 26.
The Prime Minister's message will focus on climate justice, highlighting Nepal's minimal contribution to global carbon emissions compared to its significant vulnerability to climate impacts. Nepal’s annual per capita carbon footprint is 0.5 tons, which is only 0.1% of total global emissions.
Himalayan Warming and Recent Events
The Nepali Times reports that the Himalaya region is experiencing elevation-dependent warming, meaning it is heating up 0.7°C faster than the global average. The global average temperature is already 1.5°C above the pre-industrial baseline. Scientists had previously warned of severe events like the recent Bhote Kosi-Trisuli Flood.
- The average temperature on the north side of Langtang Lirung reached 5°C at 5,200m elevation in the week before a rock slide, marking the highest recorded temperature in that area.
- Evidence suggests permafrost melting due to these record high temperatures contributed to the fracturing of bedrock on Langtang, leading to a slope collapse.
- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) estimates the cost of the recent disaster at $4.7 billion.
Nepal's Message to the World
Prime Minister Shah plans to emphasize Nepal's environmental efforts, such as doubling forest area to 46% in the last 30 years, generating most of its electricity from hydropower, and having electric vehicles constitute 75% of new vehicle registrations. This approach seeks to highlight Nepal's contributions rather than solely focusing on its status as a victim of climate change.
Implications for Travellers in Nepal
While the Prime Minister's address is a diplomatic event, it underscores the ongoing climate challenges in Nepal that can affect trekking and travel conditions. Travellers should understand that the increased temperatures and associated permafrost melt in the Himalayas could lead to environmental changes in mountainous regions, as seen in the Langtang area.
For those planning adventure activities or treks, it is essential to stay updated on local conditions and any advisories from local authorities or trekking operators. Although specific routes are not named as currently closed due to this report, the broader context of Himalayan heating suggests a need for vigilance, especially in high-altitude areas prone to geological instability.
Pokhara and its immediate surroundings are not directly mentioned in connection with the specific flood event of August 26 or the Langtang rockslide, indicating that these areas may not be directly affected by the immediate aftermath of those incidents. However, the overall climate discussion pertains to the entire Himalayan range.
Outlook
Nepal aims to use this global platform to draw attention to the severe consequences of climate change on its environment and to advocate for international support. The focus is on the long-term implications for the planet, with Nepal serving as an early warning signal of what may be coming.
Reported by
This update summarises reporting from the outlets below and adds our own planning guidance. Follow the links for the original reports.
Questions travellers are asking
What is the main topic of Nepal's Prime Minister's address to the UN?
Prime Minister Balendra Shah will address the United Nations General Assembly on September 24 to discuss the recent flood in Nepal. He will present it as a global warning about climate change and advocate for climate justice, according to the Nepali Times.
How does climate change specifically affect the Himalayas, according to the report?
The report indicates that the Himalaya region is experiencing elevation-dependent warming, heating up 0.7°C faster than the global average of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This has led to record high temperatures, such as 5°C at 5,200m on Langtang Lirung, contributing to permafrost melting and bedrock fracturing.
What was the cost of the recent disaster in Nepal?
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has estimated the cost of the recent disaster in Nepal at $4.7 billion.
Should I change my travel plans to Nepal based on this news?
This news primarily concerns diplomatic discussions about climate change rather than immediate travel advisories. However, it highlights the environmental challenges in Nepal's mountains. Travellers should always consult with their trekking operators and stay informed about local conditions, especially for high-altitude regions, given the mentioned permafrost melt and slope instability in areas like Langtang.