Nepal, Sept. 3 -- Its sheer scale may have been a shock, but the Trisuli Disaster last week was not unexpected. Climatologists and seismologists have been warning of such calamities for decades. But an accountable and open government can prevent a disaster such as this from turning into a catastrophe.

After a week of intense glare, the international media spotlight has already moved elsewhere. Officials pandering to demands from foreign reporters for access will now have to deal with questions from the domestic press about swift and equitable relief distribution, temporary shelters, education and health needs of the displaced, and longer-term rehabilitation.

But the aftermath of this flood coincides with the first anniversary of the 8-...