The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday issued a glacial lake outburst flood (Glof) alert for parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, warning of increased risks due to expected rainfall and changing weather conditions in the upper regions of the country.
Read More: PMD warns of glacial floods risk in northern Pakistan
According to the alert issued on Sunday night, a moderate westerly weather system is expected to enter northern Pakistan, bringing widespread rain, windstorms, and isolated heavy downpours in mountainous catchment areas. The system is likely to affect Khyber Pakhtunkhwa first before extending into Gilgit-Baltistan.
GLOF Alert for Northern Pakistan as Rain-Wind/Thunderstorm Increases Flood Risk in Glaciated Valleys. #GLOFAlert #PMD #PakistanWeather #FlashFlood #GlacialFlood #KPWeather #GilgitBaltistan #ClimateAlert #RainAlert #FloodRisk #DisasterManagement pic.twitter.com/eWgs7JSPtY
— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) May 11, 2026
The PMD warned that the prevailing conditions could significantly increase the risk of Glof events, flash floods, and debris flows in vulnerable valleys and river basins. Areas identified as high-risk include Swat, Lower Chitral, Dir, Upper Hazara, Kohistan, and several regions of Gilgit-Baltistan such as Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Shigar, Ghanche, and Astore.
Residents in glacial valleys have been advised to stay away from riverbanks and stream beds during rainfall, monitor water channels for sudden changes in flow or unusual sounds, and relocate livestock and essential belongings to safer ground where necessary.
The alert also urged disaster management authorities to maintain round-the-clock readiness, improve early warning communication, and ensure timely dissemination of updates through mobile alerts and media channels.
Separately, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued directives to district administrations in vulnerable regions, including Upper and Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan, and Mansehra. Officials have been instructed to intensify monitoring of Glof-prone sites, conduct evacuation drills, and ensure that designated safe shelters are fully prepared.
Read More: PDMA issues GLOF alert for KP
The PDMA further asked local administrations to keep rescue teams on standby and advise residents in low-lying areas to remain alert and move to safer locations if water levels rise or signs of landslides appear. Coordination for road restoration and preventive measures at high-risk sites has also been emphasized.