The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a strong advisory urging residents and travelers in northern Pakistan to remain vigilant as a fresh wave of rain and snowfall is forecasted to persist until March 16. This weather pattern is expected to exacerbate the risk of natural hazards such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), landslides, and disruptions to travel across the mountainous regions.
In a detailed statement released to the press, NDMA emphasized that local government bodies and relevant agencies have been directed to maintain heightened readiness and continuous monitoring of vulnerable areas. The authority highlighted that the combination of precipitation and rising temperatures could trigger sudden glacial floods, particularly in regions where glaciers are already under stress due to climate variations.
The affected areas include the northern territories of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Specific districts expected to experience significant rainfall and snowfall include Gilgit, Astore, Diamer, Skardu, Hunza, Ghizer, and Shigar in Gilgit-Baltistan. Meanwhile, parts of Azad Kashmir such as Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Poonch, Haveli, Kotli, Bhimber, and the Neelum Valley are also forecasted to receive similar weather conditions. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, areas like Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, and Battagram are likely to see rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms.
Experts warn that snowfall at higher elevations will create hazardous road conditions, making travel treacherous due to slippery surfaces and the increased likelihood of landslides. The persistent precipitation is also expected to raise the risk of avalanches in the mountainous zones, posing additional threats to local communities and travelers alike. The NDMA further cautioned that power outages could occur intermittently in some localities as a result of adverse weather conditions.
One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for glacial lake outburst floods, which occur when water dammed by a glacier or a moraine suddenly releases, causing devastating floods downstream. Districts such as Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Gilgit, Astore, and Skardu are particularly vulnerable to such events. The melting of glaciers accelerated by rising temperatures, combined with heavy rainfall, increases the chances of these sudden floods, which can lead to significant damage to infrastructure and loss of life.
Additionally, landslides triggered by the ongoing rain and snowfall may obstruct key mountain routes, including the vital Karakoram Highway, which serves as a crucial artery for trade and travel in the region. Areas like Diamer, Darel, Tangir, Astore, and Hunza have been identified as especially susceptible to landslides. Any blockage on these routes could severely disrupt transportation and the movement of goods, impacting both local economies and connectivity.
Given the complex interplay of weather conditions and the fragile geography of northern Pakistan, authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated on weather advisories. The NDMA continues to coordinate with provincial disaster management authorities and emergency services to ensure swift response capabilities in case of any natural calamities.
