The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) alert for Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning that rain, windstorms and isolated heavy falls could trigger flooding and debris flows in vulnerable areas from May 3.
According to the alert issued on May 2, a moderate westerly wave is expected to enter the upper parts of the country, bringing widespread rain and thunderstorms to both regions.
The department warned that a sudden rise in temperatures followed by widespread precipitation could significantly increase the risk of glacial lake outburst floods, debris flow and flash flooding.
The alert identified several vulnerable areas, including Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar, Swat, Upper Chitral, Dir and Astore.
Residents living in glaciated valleys have been advised to avoid riverbanks and stream beds during rainfall and keep a close watch on local nullahs for sudden changes in water color or unusual sounds that may indicate an incoming surge.
The department also advised people to move livestock and essential belongings to safer higher ground and remain in contact with local disaster response committees and technical focal persons in remote valleys.
Authorities have been directed to stay on high alert around the clock and take all necessary precautionary measures to avoid any untoward situation.