The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued an alert to the relevant district administrations over the possible risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the upper districts.

According to PDMA, intermittent rainfall during the warm weather from tonight until September 4 could accelerate glacier melting, increasing the size and water levels of glacial lakes.

PDMA warned that the bursting of glacial lakes could lead to sudden floods and strong water flows.

The district administrations of Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Upper and Lower Kohistan, and Mansehra have been directed to continuously monitor vulnerable GLOF-prone areas and ensure timely reporting.

The administrations have also been instructed to make advance preparations for evacuating people from vulnerable areas and keep safe locations ready. Residents of low-lying areas should also be informed about the possible GLOF threat in a timely manner.

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PDMA has advised the public to avoid going near rivers, streams, glacial lakes, and narrow mountain valleys.

Tourists and travelers have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, camping, and trekking in vulnerable areas. PDMA said vehicles can be swept away by fast-flowing water, urging citizens to remain cautious.

The authority has instructed people to pay immediate attention to any sudden change in the color of water in streams or unusual sounds. Residents in vulnerable areas have also been advised to move livestock and essential belongings to higher and safer locations.

PDMA has directed authorities to ensure the availability of rescue and emergency services.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, a 24-hour emergency operations center is continuously monitoring the situation. The spokesperson appealed to citizens to contact PDMA’s toll-free helpline 1700 in case of any emergency.