The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh alert warning of potential Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, triggered by heatwave-driven glacier melts.
In a statement from its Research and Development Division in Islamabad, the PMD noted that persistently high temperatures, combined with an incoming weather system, could increase meltwater flows and cause sudden bursts of glacial lakes. This could lead to flash floods threatening vulnerable northern valleys and downstream areas.
The PMD has urged residents, local authorities, and disaster management teams in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to remain vigilant over the coming days, as the situation may worsen during the current and following week. Relevant departments and emergency services have also been advised to stay alert and implement preventive measures to reduce potential risks.
Separately, the Met Office has forecast heavy rainfall on the 10th of Muharram in several cities, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Nowshera, and Peshawar. The advisory includes a warning of possible urban flooding in low-lying areas of Punjab cities due to intense downpours.
In contrast, weather across most parts of Sindh and Balochistan is expected to remain hot and humid. However, light rain or drizzle may occur in Karachi and Hyderabad, particularly during morning and nighttime hours, providing slight relief from the heat.
These alerts come as northern regions face heightened flood risks from glacier melt, underscoring the need for preparedness among communities and local administrations.
