PMD issues glacier melt flood alert in northern Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh advisory warning that persistently high temperatures across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to accelerate the melting of snow

Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh advisory warning that persistently high temperatures across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to accelerate the melting of snow and glaciers through the first week of July 2026, increasing the risk of floods and other weather-related hazards in mountainous regions.

According to the PMD, the ongoing heat is expected to speed up the melting of snow and ice in glaciated areas, causing water levels in rivers, streams, and mountain channels to rise significantly. The department cautioned that communities living in vulnerable valleys and downstream areas should remain vigilant as the volume of meltwater continues to increase.

The advisory noted that existing glacial lakes could expand due to the additional inflow of meltwater, while new glacial lakes may also form in high-altitude regions. Such developments raise the possibility of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), which occur when natural ice or moraine dams collapse under mounting pressure, releasing large volumes of water downstream within a short period.

The PMD also warned that rapidly rising water levels could trigger flash floods in mountain valleys, particularly in low-lying settlements situated near riverbanks and streams. In addition, thawing permafrost combined with excessive runoff may lead to mudflows and debris flows, posing a serious threat to infrastructure, roads, bridges, and local communities.

Steep mountain slopes are also expected to become increasingly unstable, raising the likelihood of landslides and rockfalls in affected regions. Authorities fear that these hazards could disrupt transportation networks and isolate remote communities if precautionary measures are not taken.

Residents, tourists, and trekkers visiting snow-covered and glaciated valleys have been advised to avoid riverbanks, fast-flowing streams, glacial lakes, and narrow mountain passes during the advisory period. The PMD urged the public to stay away from unstable slopes and continuously monitor official weather forecasts and emergency advisories.

The department further advised local communities to remain in close coordination with Community-Based Disaster Risk Management Committees for timely information and emergency assistance. Provincial disaster management authorities, district administrations, and other relevant agencies have been directed to maintain a high level of preparedness and ensure round-the-clock monitoring of vulnerable areas.

Officials have also been instructed to intensify public awareness campaigns by disseminating alerts through SMS services, social media platforms, and local communication networks to ensure that residents receive timely warnings.