The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), has issued multiple weather alerts for the next 24 hours, warning of heightened risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods, landslides, and intense monsoon rains across various regions of Pakistan.
A convergence of extreme heat, intensified monsoon activity, and an active westerly system has escalated the threat of severe weather and hydrological hazards, particularly in the northern and southern regions.
According to a GLOF advisory, prolonged high temperatures have significantly increased glacial and snow melt in the north, putting immense pressure on glacial lakes. The ongoing monsoon downpours have further compounded the situation, raising the possibility of sudden outbursts.
High-risk zones identified include Reshun, Brep, Booni, Sardar Gol, Thalu 1 and 2, Badswat, Hinarchi, Darkut, and Hundur valleys, where outbursts could unleash powerful flash floods, posing serious threats to human life, livestock, agriculture, roads, and communication infrastructure.
Residents, trekkers, and tourists have been urged to avoid travel near glacial lakes, glaciers, and riverbanks in vulnerable areas.
The NDMA has encouraged the public to stay connected with official alerts, follow evacuation protocols where applicable, and promptly report any signs of unusual glacier activity or water flow changes. The authority also recommended downloading the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” app for real-time updates.
In addition to glacial threats, the NDMA has issued a comprehensive weather advisory covering Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Islamabad. Over the next 12 to 24 hours, these regions may experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
Authorities have warned of potential damage to infrastructure, including fallen trees, disrupted power lines, and collapsed structures. Visibility may be sharply reduced due to dust storms, raising the likelihood of road accidents.
The public is advised to steer clear of billboards, power poles, and unstable buildings while emergency services remain on high alert.
Heavy rain in the Galiyat mountain range has already triggered landslides and falling rocks, causing blockages on key roads. Tourists and locals have been advised to limit travel and strictly follow safety protocols. Local authorities have deployed traffic personnel at critical points, and a 24/7 helpline (1915) has been activated for assistance.
In response to increasing flood threats, the AJK government has established emergency flood warning and control centres at district and tehsil levels across all ten districts. These units are being set up under the supervision of District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) and Deputy Commissioners, in collaboration with Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and the Red Crescent Society.
These centres will operate around the clock to monitor flood conditions, issue alerts, and coordinate emergency responses. Muzaffarabad DC Yasir Riaz confirmed that the control rooms are maintaining direct coordination with national authorities and neighbouring districts, including Jhelum, to ensure rapid action in the event of rising waters.
The NDMA has reiterated its call for public vigilance and cooperation with authorities as Pakistan navigates through a period of intense climatic activity.