Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have issued an emergency alert over the risk of glacial lake outburst floods in several upper districts as Heavy Rains, rising temperatures, and strong winds are expected to affect the province.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has directed district administrations to take immediate precautionary measures and complete advance preparations to deal with any emergency situation.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, a fresh system of westerly winds is entering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa today. The weather system is expected to bring Heavy Rains and powerful winds to many upper regions of the province over the coming days.
Officials warned that changing weather conditions may increase the danger of glacier bursts, glacial lake outburst floods, flash floods, and landslides in vulnerable mountain areas. Authorities believe rising temperatures combined with rainfall may accelerate glacier melting in northern districts.
The alert includes Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, and Upper Kohistan among the most vulnerable areas. PDMA also identified Chitral, Swat, Dir, and Kohistan as regions facing a higher risk of sudden flooding and landslides.
District administrations have been instructed to closely monitor glacier activity and possible glacial lake overflows. Emergency response teams and rescue agencies have also been placed on alert.
Officials stated that Heavy Rains may trigger sudden water flows in rivers, streams, and valleys. These conditions could damage roads, tourist routes, farms, and local communities in sensitive mountain areas.
The PDMA has ordered authorities to ensure that warning systems remain active so residents can receive timely alerts before any emergency develops. Rescue departments and local administrations have also been told to maintain coordination during the expected weather spell.
Tourists visiting northern areas have been advised to remain careful and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions. Farmers and residents living near rivers, slopes, and glacier-fed routes were also urged to take precautionary steps.
The latest alert comes shortly after authorities warned about rising temperatures and possible heatwave conditions across Pakistan. Officials fear that high temperatures may further increase glacier melting in upper areas.
Experts say climate-related weather changes continue to raise the risk of natural disasters in mountainous regions. Authorities hope early preparedness and public awareness will help reduce damage and improve emergency response efforts.
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Residents in vulnerable districts have been advised to follow official instructions and stay updated through weather and disaster management authorities during the upcoming rain spell.
