ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Saturday issued an alert for glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in Pakistan’s upper regions including Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, as a result of an expected westerly wave this weekend.
GLOF refers to the sudden release of water and debris from a glacial lake, leading to the loss of life, property, and livelihood in hilly areas.
According to the Ministry of Climate Change, over 7.1 million people in GB and KP are vulnerable to the phenomenon.
In its Saturday statement, the Met Office said that a moderate westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of Pakistan from Sunday (today).
“During this period, widespread rain, wind thunderstorms, and isolated heavy falls, are anticipated across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa,” the alert said.
Widespread rains to elevate risk of GLOFs: PMD
According to the PMD, the sudden increase in temperatures followed by widespread precipitation significantly elevates the risk of GLOFs, flow of debris, and flash flooding in vulnerable areas, particularly in Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar, Swat, upper Chitral, Dir and Astore.
Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to avoid proximity to riverbanks and stream beds during rainfall and secure livestock and essentials in higher safe grounds.
They were also asked to disseminate the alert via SMS and social media.
The PMD has also advised locals to monitor local nullahs for sudden changes in water colour, indicating muddiness, or unusual sounds that could indicate grinding rocks.
It directed them to coordinate closely with Community-Based Disaster Risk Management Committees. It further directed the disaster management authorities to ensure 24/7 alertness and maintain active communication links with technical focal persons in remote valleys.
The PMD advised all concerned to remain alert and take necessary measures to avoid any untoward situation.
Pakistan is home to over 13,032 glaciers, the largest reservoir of glaciers outside of the polar regions. However, experts have warned that about 10,000 glaciers in Chitral and GB regions have been reported to be receding due to climate change–induced temperature rise.
