Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Damages Bhutan’s Gasa Tshachu Hot Springs

A glacial lake outburst flood triggered by the bursting of Shintaphu glacial lake has damaged infrastructure at the popular Gasa Tshachu natural hot springs in northern Bhutan, according to local media reports.

No injuries or loss of life have been reported so far, Bhutan’s state broadcaster BBS reported.

The late-night flash flood caused by the glacial lake outburst swept through the Gasa Tshachu area with a strong flow of water. The full extent of the damage was not immediately known because of darkness and the intensity of the flood, BBS reported.

Two Bailey bridges, which are portable bridges assembled from prefabricated sections, may have been washed away by the floodwaters.

Bhutan’s national newspaper Kuensel reported that a section of the road leading to Laya village, where the hot springs are located, was also washed away, leaving the route impassable.

The road has been closed to traffic indefinitely as authorities assess the damage and safety conditions.

According to Kuensel, people in the affected area had been evacuated before the floodwaters reached the site, helping prevent casualties.

Gasa Tshachu is one of Bhutan’s major natural tourism attractions, particularly known for its hot springs and Himalayan surroundings. Located in the northern part of Bhutan, the area attracts both domestic and international visitors.

The hot springs have faced similar flooding risks in the past. In 2021, a flash flood caused the Mochhu River to change course and sweep through the Gasa Tshachu area.

The latest glacial lake outburst highlights the growing risks faced by communities and tourism infrastructure in Bhutan’s mountainous regions, where glacial lakes can pose significant flood hazards.

Authorities are expected to assess the damage to roads, bridges and other infrastructure once conditions allow safe access to the affected area.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over climate-related hazards in the Himalayan region, where rising temperatures and changing glacial conditions are increasing risks associated with glacial lakes and sudden flood events.