AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad: National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of NDMA has issued an advisory regarding potential Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks from March to September this year due to anticipated rise in temperatures, changing weather patterns and possible early heatwave conditions in northern Pakistan.
According to Radio Pakistan, seasonal projections indicate that increasing temperatures during March to June may accelerate snow and glacier melt in Gilgit Baltistan and Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heightening the risk of GLOF incidents. Such events can trigger flash floods, causing damage to homes, infrastructure, agriculture, communication networks, and may result in human casualties in vulnerable downstream communities.
Potentially exposed areas include Ahmad Abad, Faiz Abad, Mujawer Village, Ishkoman Valley, Gulkin Valley, Gulmit Valley, Bubur Village and Handis Valley in Gilgit Baltistan while Reshun, Kumrat, Yarkhun Valley, Lasht, Istach, Dizq and Brep in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The NDMA has advised provincial and local administrations to review contingency plans, ensure early warning dissemination, and prepare evacuation arrangements where necessary.