ISLAMABAD: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert warning of a possible glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) and flooding in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as intense heat continues across the province. It said the rising temperatures are accelerating glacier and snowmelt in northern areas, increasing the risk of sudden water surges.
The authority stated that the ongoing heatwave is likely to persist for the next few days. However, it also forecast thundershowers in upper regions from the evening and night of June 4, which may further intensify runoff in glacier-fed rivers.
Officials warned that the combination of rapid melting and rainfall could raise river levels significantly. As a result, the chances of flash floods and glacial lake outburst events have increased in vulnerable regions.
The PDMA identified several high-risk mountainous districts, including Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Dir, and Mansehra. It also highlighted potential threats such as landslides, mudslides, rockfalls, and disruption of communication routes in these areas.
In addition, Lower Chitral, Lower Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan, and Mansehra have been placed on alert status. Authorities warned that sudden overflow of rivers and streams could trigger flooding in nearby low-lying communities.
Furthermore, the PDMA has directed local administrations to closely monitor sensitive locations and maintain emergency readiness. Officials have been instructed to ensure rapid response arrangements to reduce possible damage.
The authority emphasized that continuous surveillance of glacier-fed water systems is essential. It added that timely action and coordination can help minimize risks to lives and infrastructure in affected districts.
