Red Cross says Nepal-Tibet border flood toll 'heavy', 93,000 affected

GENEVA — The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said Friday that the humanitarian toll from flooding along the Nepal-Tibet border has reached "heavy" proportions, with early estimates indicating that around 93,000 people have been affected. The floods struck Nepal and the northern Chinese region of Tibet, damaging homes, agricultural land and infrastructure, while search and rescue operations continue in the affected areas. Red Cross teams have intensified efforts to provide emergency shelter, clean water and health services to survivors. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as searches continue for missing people. International aid organizations have mobilized to support those affected, while the Nepalese government is working on reconstruction plans. The Red Cross said prolonged humanitarian assistance will be needed to meet the basic needs of much of the affected population.