The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Saturday issued a glacial lake outburst flood (Glof) alert for Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a fresh westerly wave approaches the country. Authorities warned that rising temperatures and expected rainfall could increase risks in vulnerable mountain regions. The alert aims to protect communities facing potential flash floods and landslides.
PMD said partly cloudy to cloudy weather with moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms is expected in glaciated valleys of GB and KP during the coming week. The department warned that daytime temperatures in these areas are already above normal, which could accelerate snow and ice melting. Increased melting combined with rainfall may raise water levels in rivers and expand existing glacial lakes.
Read more: PMD warns of glacial floods risk in northern Pakistan
A glacial lake outburst flood occurs when water and debris suddenly escape from a glacial lake, causing damage to lives, property, and infrastructure. According to the Ministry of Climate Change, more than 7.1 million people in GB and KP are vulnerable to such events. PMD warned that downstream settlements and low-lying areas near rivers could face sudden flooding.
The weather department said rapid glacial lake expansion could weaken natural ice and moraine dams, potentially triggering Glof incidents. It also cautioned that melting permafrost and excess surface water may cause mudflows and debris flows on mountain slopes. Disaster management authorities have been advised to remain alert and take precautionary measures.
Read more: PDMA issues GLOF alert in five mountainous districts of KP
PMD urged residents and tourists in snow-covered and glaciated valleys to avoid riverbanks, streams, glacial lakes, and unstable slopes during the forecast period. People were advised to monitor official weather updates and follow safety instructions. Pakistan has more than 13,000 glaciers, but experts warn that climate change-driven warming is causing many glaciers in northern regions to retreat.