A flash flood hit Nepal on Wednesday. Water, mud and debris swept through a Himalayan river valley.

The valley is on the border with China's Tibet region. The flood destroyed villages and communities.

The New York Times and Financial Times reported 98 deaths in Nepal. UPI reported at least 95 dead.

An earlier report from France 24 said 22 had died. Hundreds more remain missing or unaccounted for.

Those missing include border officials, port workers and local residents. Others include foreign tourists and security workers.

Authorities in China's Gyirong County also reported casualties. China launched search-and-rescue operations there.

Reports say an avalanche from a glacier may have caused the flood. Mud and debris buried buildings in Gyirong.

Gyirong is a major crossing to Mount Kailash for travelers. The flooding halted travel in parts of Nepal while rescues continued.