The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high-alert warning for northern Pakistan, cautioning that rapid glacier melting could lead to dangerous flash floods, landslides, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the coming days.
According to the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), rising temperatures are accelerating glacier melt, increasing the chances of sudden surges in river flows across Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir until at least July 3.
The disaster management authority warned that excessive pressure on the region’s glaciers has significantly raised the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods. These events can release massive amounts of water without warning, posing a serious threat to nearby communities, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Authorities have urged residents living in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow all safety instructions issued by local administrations. District administrations have also been advised to stay prepared for any emergency situation.
The areas considered most at risk include Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Swat, and surrounding mountainous regions.
The NDMA has also issued an advisory for tourists, asking them to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers, streams, glaciers, and glacial lakes during this period. Visitors have been urged to postpone activities in high-risk areas until weather conditions improve.
Officials warned that rivers and streams fed by glaciers could experience sudden increases in water levels, making travel through mountain valleys dangerous.
Residents and travelers have been encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and emergency advisories. Authorities stressed that taking preventive measures and avoiding risky locations can help reduce the impact of any possible flooding or landslides during the current period of increased glacier melt
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