The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) alert for several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning residents about possible flooding and debris flows starting May 3. The weather department said rain, windstorms, and isolated heavy falls may increase risks in vulnerable mountainous regions.
According to the advisory issued on May 2, a moderate westerly weather system is expected to enter the upper parts of the country. The system is likely to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms to northern Pakistan over the coming days. Officials warned that the changing weather conditions could rapidly increase pressure on glaciers and glacial lakes.
The department explained that rising temperatures followed by heavy rainfall can trigger Glacial Lake Outburst Floods, commonly known as GLOFs. These events occur when water stored inside glacial lakes suddenly bursts out, causing dangerous flash floods, landslides, and debris flow in nearby valleys and settlements.
Several high-risk areas were identified in the alert, including Hunza, Nagar, Swat, Upper Chitral, Dir, and Astore. Other vulnerable locations include Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, Ghanche, and Shigar.
Residents living near glaciers, rivers, and streams have been advised to avoid riverbanks and stream beds during periods of rainfall. Authorities said people should closely monitor local nullahs and immediately report unusual sounds, sudden changes in water color, or rising water levels that may signal an incoming flood surge.
The PMD also instructed local administrations and disaster management authorities to remain on high alert around the clock. People in remote valleys have been urged to move livestock and valuable belongings to safer higher ground and stay connected with local emergency response teams to avoid any loss of life or property.
Also read: PMD Forecasts Heavy Rain Across Pakistan
