PMD issues major flood warning for Gilgit-Baltistan and KP
PMD warns of rising GLOF risk
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a Gilgit-Baltistan flood warning and KP flood warning, saying warmer temperatures and intermittent rainfall could significantly increase the risk of GLOF alert Pakistan conditions.
According to the Met Office, rising temperatures are expected to speed up the melting of snow and glaciers. This could increase water levels in rivers and streams while also causing existing glacial lakes to expand or new ones to form.
Flood danger for vulnerable areas
The Gilgit-Baltistan flood warning states that settlements located downstream, narrow valleys and low-lying areas face the highest risk of sudden flooding caused by glacial lake outburst floods.
The PMD also warned that rapid glacier melting could trigger landslides and debris flows in mountainous regions, creating additional risks for local communities.
Tourists and residents advised to stay alert
Authorities have asked residents and tourists to avoid riverbanks, stream channels and glacial lakes until weather conditions improve.
The KP flood warning also advises people to avoid trekking, camping and unnecessary travel in high-risk mountainous areas. Everyone has been urged to follow safety instructions issued by local disaster management authorities.
Read Also: Floods wreak havoc in Punjab as rising rivers destroy crops and homes
Roads remain closed after recent floods
The GLOF alert Pakistan comes as several roads in Gilgit-Baltistan remain closed for the fifth consecutive day due to flash floods that damaged highways and bridges.
Officials are working to install a temporary Bailey bridge on the Baltistan Highway to restore traffic.
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain has directed authorities to speed up road repairs, restore communication networks and ensure food supplies, medical assistance and traffic management for stranded travellers.
