The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning about potential glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs), heavy rainfall, and flash flooding in the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A moderate westerly weather system is forecast to enter the northern parts of the country starting May 3, which may cause widespread rain, windstorms, thunderstorms, and isolated heavy downpours.
In a significant development, the PMD highlighted that rising temperatures followed by rainfall increase the risk of GLOF events, landslides, debris flows, and flash floods, particularly in vulnerable mountainous zones. Areas identified as especially at risk include Hopper, Gulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Bad Swat, Lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Dir, and Upper Dir, where the presence of glacial lakes and steep terrain exacerbate the hazards.
The department has advised residents living in glacial valleys to avoid streams, rivers, and low-lying locations during heavy rainfall periods. People are urged to stay alert for early warning signs such as sudden changes in water color or unusual noises like the rumbling of rocks, and to relocate to safer areas if necessary.
Moreover, inhabitants have been instructed to move livestock and essential belongings to higher ground and maintain close communication with local disaster management committees. Disaster response teams are on high alert, conducting continuous monitoring and coordinating with technical units deployed in remote regions.
Officials emphasized the importance of public vigilance, urging citizens to adhere to safety guidelines and take precautionary steps to reduce the risk of casualties and property damage amid the anticipated severe weather conditions.
