GLOF Alert Issued for Northern Pakistan

News Desk

Islamabad: The rising risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) has prompted authorities to issue a fresh warning for Pakistan’s northern regions, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) directing administrations to remain on high alert.

The PDMA said increasing temperatures combined with intermittent rainfall could speed up glacier melting, causing water levels in glacial lakes to rise and increasing the possibility of sudden flooding.

The warning comes during the peak tourist season, when thousands of visitors from across the country, particularly Punjab and Lahore, are travelling to northern areas for summer vacations.

According to the advisory, a sudden breach of glacial lakes could release massive amounts of water downstream, creating flash floods that may threaten human lives, homes, roads, and other infrastructure.

District administrations in Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan, and Mansehra have been directed to strengthen preparedness measures. Authorities have been instructed to closely monitor vulnerable locations, issue timely alerts, conduct evacuation exercises, and arrange safe shelters in high-risk areas.

The PDMA has also advised tourists and travellers to avoid unnecessary visits, camping, and trekking in areas vulnerable to flooding. Motorists have been warned against attempting to cross flooded streams or fast-moving water, as strong currents can sweep away vehicles within seconds.

A GLOF occurs when a natural barrier holding a glacial lake, made of ice or loose rock, collapses and releases a large volume of water in a short period. Experts say such events can be triggered by rising temperatures, heavy rainfall, or seismic activity.

Authorities have urged local administrations and tourists to remain cautious as changing weather patterns continue to increase risks in mountainous regions.