ISLAMABAD, September 1, 2026: The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) alert for Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir amid continued monsoon rains and rising temperatures.
According to the alert, rising temperatures and accelerated glacier melting have increased the risk of glacial lake outbursts and sudden flooding in vulnerable mountainous areas.
Several areas have been identified as particularly sensitive, including Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Shigar, Gilgit, Rondo, Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Ghanche, Kharmang and Neelum Valley.
The NDMA has also warned of possible flash floods and landslides in Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Buner and adjoining mountainous areas.
Relevant authorities have been directed to maintain continuous monitoring of vulnerable glaciers, glacial lakes, rivers and streams and to ensure timely preventive measures and preparedness in high-risk locations.
Heavy Rainfall Expected in Potohar and Upper KP
The NEOC has also issued a warning of thunderstorms and heavy to torrential rainfall across the Potohar region and upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from September 2 to 5.
Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Murree, Galiyat and adjoining areas may receive heavy rainfall during the period.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy rain is expected in Dir, Swat, Buner, Malakand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Swabi, Mardan and Peshawar.
The NDMA warned that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding in vulnerable cities, while mountainous areas could face flash floods, landslides and debris flows.
Local administrations have been instructed to pre-position necessary resources in vulnerable areas and complete arrangements for the safe evacuation of communities wherever required.
Public Urged to Exercise Extreme Caution
The NDMA has advised residents, tourists and travellers to stay away from low-lying areas, streams, nullahs, riverbanks and other flood-prone locations and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
People in mountainous areas have been particularly urged to remain alert for sudden changes in water levels, unusual muddy water flows and other signs of possible flooding. Any unusual activity near glaciers or sudden increases in water levels should immediately be reported to the relevant authorities.
The authority stressed that floodwater and strong currents should never be crossed on foot or by vehicle, even when the water appears shallow, as fast-moving water can sweep away people and vehicles.
Travellers have been advised to check the latest weather forecast and road conditions before starting their journey and avoid roads closed by the administration.
The NDMA has directed all relevant institutions to remain on high alert and continue providing timely information and early warnings to local administrations and communities.
Citizens have been encouraged to use the official Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app for the latest weather and disaster-related alerts.
In case of an emergency or potential flooding situation, citizens can dial 911 for assistance.
