Canada deploys 10 officials to Nepal as 30 Canadians remain missing after glacial collapse

The federal government has 10 officials on the ground in Nepal supporting Canadians affected by catastrophic flash flooding triggered by a glacier collapse in the Himalayan border region between Nepal and China.

The disaster killed approximately 800 people and left roughly 3,000 missing. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed Monday that 30 Canadians and permanent residents remain unaccounted for — a number she said may change as the government gathers more information. One Canadian previously unaccounted for was found safe over the weekend.

"Our priority is to locate Canadians and permanent residents and confirm their safety while offering support wherever and whenever possible," Anand said.

The 10-person response team includes an RCMP liaison officer and the deputy high commissioner of Canada to India. Global Affairs Canada said the officials are engaging with trekking companies, hospitals, local police, rescue centres, airlines and Canadian travel industry partners to gather information and help account for affected Canadians.

"Canadian officials are working closely with Nepalese and Chinese counterparts, as well as international partners including the Five Eyes, France, Japan, Italy and Singapore, to share information and support efforts to locate and assist Canadians," the department said.

The RCMP has deployed liaison support through the INTERPOL network and offered forensic equipment and expertise to assist Nepalese authorities.

Canada's travel advice for Nepal and affected areas of China was updated Monday to advise against non-essential travel due to ongoing damage from severe flash flooding and mudslides, with the risk of further flooding.

The federal government has committed $5 million in urgent humanitarian aid to support Nepal's relief efforts. The source does not specify how those funds will be allocated or disbursed.