Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) alert for northern areas of Pakistan, particularly Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), warning of a heightened risk of flash floods.
The alert, based on input from the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), pointed to a dangerous combination of sustained high temperatures, intensified monsoon activity, and a prevailing westerly wave—all of which have increased hydro-meteorological stress on glacial lakes in the region.
According to the NEOC, the rapid melting of snow and glaciers in recent weeks, compounded by ongoing monsoon rains, has significantly raised the likelihood of sudden GLOF events. Such occurrences can result in flash floods that threaten lives, damage infrastructure, disrupt communication networks, and affect livestock and agriculture.
Several valleys identified as high-risk zones include Reshun, Brep, Booni Chitral, Sardar Gol, Thalu 1 and 2, Badswat, Hinarchi, Darkut, and Hundur. The NDMA has advised residents, tourists, and trekkers to avoid travel near glacial lakes, rivers, and glaciers during this period.
The authority urged locals to stay alert, monitor official advisories, and cooperate with evacuation orders if necessary. Citizens were also encouraged to report any unusual signs of glacier movement or sudden changes in water flow to local disaster management officials. NDMA confirmed that it remains in close coordination with provincial and district administrations to ensure a timely response. People are also advised to download the ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app to stay updated on evolving risks.
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