Peshawar: Provincial Disaster Management Authority Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued an alert to district administrations in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods amid rising temperatures and forecast rainfall.
According to the PDMA, deputy commissioners in Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan and Mansehra have been directed to take precautionary measures and remain vigilant.
The authority stated that the ongoing heatwave is expected to persist for the next few days, while thunderstorms and rain are forecast in upper regions from the evening of June 4. Rising temperatures have accelerated glacier and snow melt in northern districts, increasing the likelihood of GLOFs and flash floods when combined with expected rainfall.
PDMA warned that snow-covered valleys in Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Dir, and Mansehra face potential risks of glacial lake outbursts, landslides, rockfalls, mudslides, and disruption of road networks. Sudden surges in rivers and streams could also trigger flooding in low-lying areas.
The authority has directed district administrations to continuously monitor vulnerable locations, issue timely warnings, conduct evacuation drills, and ensure the availability of emergency supplies at safe locations. Instructions have also been issued to keep community alert systems active and maintain close coordination with local disaster management committees.
Citizens have been advised to avoid visiting riverbanks, seasonal streams, and fast-flowing waterways during the heatwave and anticipated rainfall. Tourists and travellers have also been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution in vulnerable areas.
PDMA further directed Rescue 1122, the Communication and Works Department, the National Highway Authority, and other relevant agencies to remain on high alert and pre-position machinery and personnel for any emergency response. The PDMA Emergency Operations Centre remains fully operational, and citizens
