The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a warning about possible glacier bursts in the northern regions of the province due to rising temperatures. The PDMA spokesperson stated that the increasing heat could lead to sudden flooding from melting glaciers, putting several districts at high risk, including Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, and Kohistan.
A glacier burst, also known as a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), happens when water stored in a glacial lake is released suddenly, causing dangerous floods downstream. Last year, a similar incident in Upper Chitral displaced 30 families after a glacial lake burst. Experts warn that climate change is causing rapid melting of around 10,000 glaciers in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. Pakistan has over 13,000 glaciers, the largest number outside the polar regions.
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The PDMA has instructed local authorities to stay alert and take immediate action if flooding occurs. Residents in high-risk areas have been urged to remain cautious and report any emergencies by calling the PDMA helpline at 1700. The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Center is fully active, with rescue teams and equipment on standby.
Tourists visiting northern areas have also been advised to take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel to prevent being caught in potential floods. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as temperatures continue to rise.
