Glacier melt raises flood risk across KP’s Northern areas

Glacier melt raises flood risk across KP’s Northern areas

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for several northern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning of a possible rise in water levels and the volume of glacial lakes due to hot weather and intermittent rainfall.

The alert covers Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Upper and Lower Kohistan, and Mansehra, where authorities have been directed to closely monitor vulnerable glacial areas.

According to the PDMA, temperatures combined with intermittent rain from August 31 to September 4 could accelerate glacier melting. The additional meltwater may increase the size of glacial lakes and raise water levels, potentially heightening the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in downstream and low-lying areas.

The disaster management authority has instructed district administrations to maintain close surveillance of identified GLOF-prone locations and ensure timely warnings if water levels or other conditions indicate a threat.

Officials have also been asked to inform residents living in low-lying and vulnerable areas about the potential danger and keep them prepared for possible evacuation.

The PDMA has further directed local administrations to conduct evacuation drills at sensitive locations and ensure that designated safe areas remain ready to accommodate residents in case of an emergency.

Authorities have been urged to maintain coordination among relevant departments and respond quickly to any signs of rising lake levels or sudden water discharge to minimize the risk to lives and property.