The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flood alert for several mountainous areas of northern Pakistan, warning of possible flooding caused by glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
The National Emergencies Operation Centre of the NDMA issued the warning as the risk of glacial lakes bursting increases amid ongoing monsoon rains and rising temperatures.
The alert covers parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), where mountainous terrain and glacial lakes can create serious risks for nearby communities.
Rising Risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods
According to the NDMA, a combination of monsoon rainfall and increasing temperatures has raised the possibility of glacial lakes overflowing or suddenly bursting.
Glacial lake outburst floods occur when water accumulated behind or around a glacier is suddenly released, potentially sending large volumes of water downstream.
Such floods can develop rapidly and pose risks to settlements, roads, bridges and other infrastructure located near rivers and mountainous valleys.
The latest warning comes during the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall can further increase water levels in already vulnerable areas.
Gilgit-Baltistan Areas on Alert
The NDMA has identified several districts and regions of Gilgit-Baltistan as sensitive to possible flooding.
The areas mentioned in the alert include Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Shigar, Gilgit, Rondu, Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Ghanche and Kharmang.
These areas contain mountainous terrain and are exposed to risks associated with glacial activity, heavy rainfall and sudden changes in water flow.
Communities living near rivers, streams and glacial lakes could face increased risks if heavy rainfall combines with rapid melting or a glacial lake outburst.
Neelum Valley Also Included
The NDMA warning also covers Neelum Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Mountainous valleys in northern Pakistan can be particularly vulnerable during periods of intense rainfall because steep slopes can accelerate the movement of floodwater and debris.
Residents and visitors in vulnerable areas are therefore expected to remain alert to official warnings and avoid unnecessary travel through areas facing flooding or landslide threats.
Flood and Landslide Risk in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The NDMA has also warned of possible flood conditions and landslides in several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The areas specifically identified include Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Swat and Shangla, along with adjoining mountainous regions.
Heavy rainfall in these areas can increase the likelihood of flash flooding, while unstable mountain slopes can raise the risk of landslides.
The warning is particularly important for communities and travellers using roads through mountainous districts, where landslides can block routes and disrupt transportation.
Kohistan and Nearby Hilly Areas
Kohistan and nearby hilly areas have also been placed on alert.
The region’s mountainous landscape makes it vulnerable to both flooding and landslides during periods of heavy rainfall.
The NDMA’s warning highlights the need for increased vigilance in areas where communities and infrastructure are located close to rivers, streams, valleys and unstable slopes.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The latest alert underscores the continuing flood and landslide risks faced by northern Pakistan during the monsoon season.
Residents in the identified areas are advised to remain attentive to updates from relevant authorities and emergency management agencies.
People living near waterways and in vulnerable mountainous locations should exercise caution, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Travellers should also remain aware of weather and road conditions before entering areas identified as vulnerable to flooding or landslides.
The NDMA’s warning comes as northern Pakistan continues to face heightened risks from the combined effects of monsoon rainfall, rising temperatures and glacial activity.
Also read: NDMA Warns of Heavy Rain and Snowfall
