The Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a fresh alert on Saturday for possible glacial lake outburst floods, known as GLOF, in the mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A moderate westerly weather system will bring rain, wind, and thunderstorms to these areas starting Sunday, raising serious concerns among local communities and disaster managers.
Experts explain that GLOF happens when a glacial lake suddenly releases a huge volume of water mixed with debris. This destructive force can sweep away everything in its path and endanger lives in remote valleys. Over seven million people living in GB and KP remain vulnerable to such events, according to the Ministry of Climate Change.
Heavy Rain Expected to Trigger Flash Floods
The Met Office predicts widespread rain with some heavy spells across upper parts of the country. Meteorologists warn that a quick rise in temperatures combined with this precipitation will significantly increase the danger of GLOFs, debris flows, and sudden flash floods. Vulnerable spots include areas like Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar, Swat, upper Chitral, Dir, and Astore.
Authorities Urge Immediate Preparedness
Disaster management teams must stay on high alert around the clock. Officials called for strong coordination with community-based committees in remote valleys and asked everyone to share the alert through text messages and social media.
Pakistan holds more than 13,000 glaciers, the largest number outside the polar regions. However, climate change causes many of them to melt faster, especially in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. Experts have long warned about rising risks during warmer months.
Last summer, rapid melting and cloudbursts created major problems for people in GB. Authorities now hope that timely warnings will help communities avoid tragedy as another risky season begins.
