The Pakistan Meteorological Department’s Glacier Lake Monitoring Cell issued a warning on Tuesday regarding rising minimum temperatures in northern Pakistan’s glacial zones, which are elevating the threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Over the past 24 hours, minimum temperatures have climbed across most glaciated areas in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Notably, Badswat in Ghizer recorded the highest minimum temperature at 19.58°C, followed by Ghundas in Kharmang at 19.44°C and Arandu in Shigar at 17.96°C. Meanwhile, Tattu Muthat in Diamer registered a minimum temperature of 14.94°C, continuing the warming trend observed recently.
The PMD is maintaining continuous surveillance in key glaciated districts including Nagar, Hunza, Astore, Ghizer, Shigar, Skardu, Kharmang, Ghanche, and Diamer. In a significant development, the department highlighted that sustained temperature increases could accelerate glacier melt, thereby raising the likelihood of GLOF incidents in vulnerable locations.
To enhance monitoring capabilities, the PMD has upgraded its network with automated weather stations and water-level sensors strategically placed in sensitive glacial regions. Authorities and district administrations have been urged to stay vigilant and prepare for any potential flooding caused by glacial lake outbursts.
Residents living in mountainous and glaciated areas, as well as travelers passing through these zones, are advised to remain informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions. The PMD confirmed it will continue to closely track temperature patterns in glacier-fed regions to provide timely alerts and mitigate risks.
