Key points
- Sudden outbursts from glacial lakes may trigger flash floods
- NDMA urges residents and tourists to avoid travel
- Locals are advised to stay informed through official alerts and cooperate with local authorities
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority has issued Glacial Lake Outburst Flood alert for northern areas amidst persistent high temperatures, intensified monsoon currents, and a prevailing westerly wave.
Radio Pakistan cited the National Emergencies Operation Center of NDMA as saying that over the past several weeks, sustained heat has accelerated snow and glacier melting in northern regions.
The added influence of monsoon rains and thunderstorms have further raised the risk of sudden GLOF events, the NDMA said.
“Avoid travel near glaciers”
Valleys that are already identified as vulnerable, including Reshun, Brep, Booni, Sardar Gol, Thalu 1 & 2, Badswat, Hinarchi, Darkut, and Hundur are at heightened risk, according to Radio Pakistan.
Sudden outbursts from these glacial lakes may trigger flash floods, posing a serious threat to human lives, livestock, and agriculture, the report maintained.
Damage to roads, bridges, and communication networks is likely, and access to remote valleys may be temporarily disrupted, the NDMA added.
Real-time alerts
The NDMA has urged residents and tourists to avoid travel near glaciers, glacial lakes, and riverbanks in the identified areas during this period. Locals are advised to stay informed through official alerts and cooperate with local authorities on evacuation instructions where necessary.
The public is also encouraged to report any unusual water flows, sounds, or signs of glacier movement to local disaster management officials, according to Radio Pakistan.
People are advised to download the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile app for real-time alerts and guidance.
