Summary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities have issued an alert over the risk of glacial lake outburst floods as rising temperatures and rainfall increase glacier melt in upper districts, warning of possible fla
PESHAWAR (Dunya News) – Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have issued an alert over the increasing risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in the province’s upper districts, warning that rising temperatures and expected rainfall could trigger dangerous flooding situations.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), an early warning has been issued as temperatures are expected to rise across most districts until May 31, accelerating glacier melt in the northern mountain ranges. The combined impact of heat and rainfall is increasing the likelihood of sudden flooding in vulnerable areas.
Officials said upper districts including Chitral, Dir, Swat and Kohistan are expected to experience rainfall, with some areas likely to receive heavy showers. The changing weather pattern, combined with rapid glacier melting, has raised concerns about the formation and potential bursting of glacial lakes.
The PDMA warned that a sudden breach of these lakes could result in flash floods, posing serious threats to lives, infrastructure and communication networks in mountainous regions. Low-lying settlements and riverbanks are considered particularly at risk.
District administrations have been instructed to take emergency preparedness measures, including strengthening early warning systems and increasing monitoring in sensitive locations. Authorities have also been directed to ensure that rescue teams and equipment remain fully operational and ready for immediate response.
The alert further advised relevant departments to maintain constant coordination and keep machinery available in vulnerable districts to deal with possible emergency situations. It also highlighted the risk of rising water levels in streams and rivers, which may lead to dangerous currents capable of sweeping away vehicles and cutting off access routes.
Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel to high-risk areas, particularly during periods of heavy rain or sudden weather changes. Authorities also recommended that people living near rivers and vulnerable slopes relocate livestock and valuable belongings to safer locations as a precautionary measure.
The PDMA emphasised that strict adherence to official warnings is essential, as weather conditions in mountainous regions can change rapidly and without notice. Emergency response teams and district administrations have been instructed to remain on high alert and maintain round-the-clock readiness.
Officials said public cooperation is crucial to reducing risks during the current weather spell, especially in remote communities where access to emergency services may be delayed during flooding incidents.
