The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Saturday issued a glacier melting alert for the period spanning June 27 to July 3, warning that persistent heat combined with forecast rainfall could trigger rapid glacier melt, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides across Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
Advisory Aimed at Timely Preparedness
The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) stated that the advisory was issued to enable timely preparedness by authorities and to safeguard vulnerable communities, tourists, and travellers in glacier-fed regions. The NDMA noted that the prevailing weather conditions are in line with the seasonal outlook issued by the NEOC three to four months ago, underscoring the effectiveness of its early warning system and advance risk assessments.
Weather Conditions and Potential Impacts
According to the alert, continuous high temperatures, combined with expected rainfall, are likely to accelerate glacier melting, causing sudden surges in water levels in rivers and streams. Increased pressure on glacial lakes may also result in GLOFs, flash floods, landslides, and mudslides. The authority identified Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper and Lower Chitral, Swat, and adjoining areas as the most vulnerable and advised local administrations to remain on high alert.
Infrastructure and Safety Concerns
The NDMA warned that potential flash floods and landslides could damage highways, bridges, irrigation systems, and other critical infrastructure, while some mountain roads may face temporary closures, and low-lying settlements could be affected. Residents, tourists, and travellers have been urged to avoid unnecessary movement near glacier-fed rivers, streams, and glacial lakes, remain updated on official weather advisories before travelling to mountainous areas, and immediately report any sudden rise in water levels, changes in water colour, or unusual sounds from glaciers to the relevant authorities.
Directives to Provincial Authorities
The NDMA has directed Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and other relevant agencies to maintain continuous monitoring of glacial lakes, rivers, and weather conditions, while ensuring emergency preparedness and the timely availability of machinery and response resources. The NEOC said it continues to monitor the evolving situation around the clock and will provide timely updates to all concerned authorities.
Public Advisory and Mobile App
The public has also been advised to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for the latest weather updates, hazard warnings, and safety guidelines.
