The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Saturday issued an alert for glacial lake outburst floods (Glofs) in the upper regions of the country, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, due to a fresh westerly wave expected during the coming week. A Glof refers to the sudden release of water and debris from a glacial lake, leading to the loss of lives, property, and livelihoods in mountain communities. Over 7.1 million people in GB and KP are vulnerable to the phenomenon, according to the Ministry of Climate Change. In an alert issued on Saturday, the department said partly cloudy to cloudy weather accompanied by moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms was expected to affect the glaciated valleys of GB and KP. It highlighted that daytime temperatures were already “running above normal” in glaciated valleys. Monsoon rains continued across Punjab on Friday, bringing relief to residents from the intense summer heat, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting more rainfall across the province through July 13.
Lahore experienced light to heavy rain accompanied by strong winds overnight, and the Met Office said additional showers are expected in the provincial capital later in the day.
According to the forecast, most districts of Punjab are also likely to receive intermittent rain on Saturday. The rainfall is expected to reduce daytime temperatures, although humid conditions may persist. The Met Office said Lahore’s temperature is expected to range between a minimum of 26°C and a maximum of 37°C on Friday. Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert to district administrations, directing them to remain prepared and take precautionary measures against any potential rain-related incidents. Separately, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has mobilised operational staff across Lahore to ensure the timely drainage of rainwater from low-lying areas as the monsoon spell continues.