Peshawar | July 4, 2025– As torrential monsoon rains continue to lash Pakistan, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has sounded an urgent warning about the increasing threat of glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in the region’s northern glacial areas. The risk has surged dramatically due to persistent downpours, rising temperatures, and associated flash floods that have already claimed dozens of lives across the country.
Authorities Issue High Alert in Glacial Lake Regions
On Friday, the PDMA issued an advisory, highlighting the critical dangers posed by glacial lake outburst floods in several high-altitude districts. The warning specifically targeted residents of Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Kohistan, urging them to remain vigilant against potential glacial outbursts.
Officials emphasized that the continued rise in temperature is accelerating glacier melt, which directly increases the possibility of glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) events in sensitive areas. In response, the PDMA instructed the district administrations to closely monitor glacial zones, ensure early warning systems are in place, and conduct evacuation drills where necessary.
Moreover, authorities have set up evacuation sites in potentially affected locations and directed rescue teams to remain on standby with full emergency gear. The PDMA Emergency Operation Centre has been activated and is currently fully functional. Citizens are encouraged to contact 1700 for real-time updates and emergency support.
In parallel, the Ministry of Climate Change warned that more than 7.1 million people in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain vulnerable to the consequences of a glacial lake outburst flood.
Public Safety Measures and Road Infrastructure Preparedness
To reduce the risk of casualties and property loss, the PDMA has advised the public to strictly avoid unnecessary travel near rivers, canals, and fast-flowing water bodies. Tourists visiting northern areas have also been urged to stay informed and adopt all precautionary measures during their travel.
The *National Highway Authority (NHA), Frontier Works Organisation (FWO), and Communication and Works Department (CWD) have been mobilized. They received directives to remain alert, take preventative actions, and ensure rapid road restoration in case of blockages or landslides.
Meanwhile, local district administrations have launched awareness campaigns across glacial regions to educate the public about glacial lake outburst flood risks. These campaigns include informational pamphlets, social media alerts, and community-based training to help reduce potential damages during a disaster.
Flash Floods, Urban Flooding, and Monsoon Warnings
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that heavy rainfall and flash floods have already killed 64 people and injured 117 in the past week across Pakistan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa suffered the highest number of fatalities, with 23 dead, including 10 children. A tragic flash flood in Swat Valley last week claimed 14 lives as waters swept away entire families.
In preparation for the upcoming monsoon spell from July 5 to 11, the PDMA has issued another alert to district administrations throughout the province. The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts that moist currents are entering most regions and will likely intensify, heightening the risk of GLOF, flash floods, and landslides.
According to the PDMA, urban flooding remains highly likely in low-lying districts such as Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan. Additionally, riverine flooding may occur in Chitral, Swat, Panjkora, and Kabul rivers.
To mitigate these threats, the PDMA has urged officials to monitor rivers, local streams, and rain-fed nullahs consistently. The administration must ensure that drainage systems remain clear of debris, allowing efficient water flow and minimizing urban flooding potential.
Conclusion
As monsoon activity intensifies, the threat of a glacial lake outburst flood looms heavily over the northern regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The PDMA, alongside national and district-level authorities, continues to implement emergency preparedness measures to safeguard lives and property. However, with the changing climate and melting glaciers, GLOF events are becoming more frequent and dangerous.
In this challenging scenario, community awareness, rapid response, and infrastructure readiness remain the key pillars of resilience. While authorities stay on high alert, it is crucial that the public also plays its part by adhering to safety advisories and remaining alert to early warning signs.
