The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of a potential risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF), flash floods, and landslides in northern Pakistan from April 1 to April 10.
According to the authority, vulnerable areas in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may face increased risk due to an expected widespread weather system during the period.
The NDMA said the threat is particularly high near glacier termini, where melting ice and heavy rainfall could trigger floods, mudslides, and landslides.
Higher Temperatures Increase Risk
The disaster management authority noted that temperatures in the northern mountainous regions have remained above normal in recent days, increasing the likelihood of glacial melt and related hazards.
Authorities have advised local communities to stay alert and asked relevant government departments to take precautionary measures to protect lives and infrastructure.
Authorities Asked to Monitor Vulnerable Areas
The NDMA urged federal ministries, provincial governments, district administrations, and municipal authorities to closely monitor vulnerable GLOF sites.
Officials have been instructed to ensure:
- Early warning systems are operational
- Timely evacuation plans are ready
- Emergency response mechanisms remain active
Rescue agencies including Rescue 1122, civil defense, and fire brigade services have also been directed to remain on alert and ensure the availability of personnel and equipment during the forecast period.
Public and Tourists Advised to Exercise Caution
The NDMA advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk areas, particularly near rivers, streams, and glacial zones.
Tourists have been urged to:
- Avoid trekking in glacier-prone areas
- Stay away from glacier sites
- Refrain from taking pictures or videos near glaciers
Authorities warned that approaching such locations could lead to dangerous incidents.
Cold Weather Returns After Rain and Snowfall
The alert comes as rain and snowfall in northern regions have already caused unusually cold weather across parts of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Heavy rainfall partially blocked sections of the Karakoram Highway in Kohistan and Hunza, according to the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority.
Traffic was disrupted for several hours, leaving thousands of passengers stranded before authorities restored the route.
Officials have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain cautious while driving during the ongoing weather spell.
Climate Trends Raising Concerns
Experts say changing climate patterns are contributing to rising environmental risks in the region.
According to the Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency, the average temperature in Gilgit-Baltistan increased by about 0.6°C between 1987 and 2013, leading to accelerated glacier melt and a rise in flash floods.
Experts warn that communities living downstream of rivers and glacial lakes could face serious threats during the upcoming summer due to continued glacier melting and extreme weather events.
