ISLAMABAD: Authorities have warned of an increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods and debris flows across the northern regions of Pakistan from July 10 to 14, as high temperatures combined with widespread rainfall are expected to accelerate glacier melt and increase runoff in vulnerable mountain valleys.
According to the latest advisory, persistent heat coupled with forecast rain, wind and thunderstorms over the upper catchments of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) could trigger localized flooding, mudflows and landslides in glacier-fed areas.
The advisory identified several high-risk valleys, including Badswat, Ishkoman, Hinarchi, Tersat Hundur, Ultar, Owir, Chianter, Gupis, Yasin, Raushan, Hakis, Chatiboi, Thalu-1 and Thalu-2, Reshun, Brep, Booni, Sardar Gol, Pindoru Chaat, Khaplu, Hisper-Hoper, Ghulkin, Gulmit, Batura, Shishper and Sonoghor, along with nearby localities.
Officials warned that rapidly melting glaciers and heavy rainfall could cause a sudden rise in river and stream flows, increasing the likelihood of flash floods, debris flows and landslides. The severe weather may also damage roads, bridges and irrigation infrastructure, while disrupting transport and communication in affected areas.
Authorities have advised local administrations to closely monitor glacial lakes, river levels and weather conditions throughout the forecast period. Residents and tourists have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel near glacier-fed rivers, streams and flood-prone valleys and to follow official weather advisories and early warning alerts.
Pakistan remains highly vulnerable to GLOFs due to rising temperatures and accelerated glacier melt in the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya region. Climate experts have repeatedly warned that extreme weather events linked to climate change are increasing the risk of flash floods and other mountain hazards during the monsoon season.
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