Met Office warns of flash floods, heavy rain in KP, G-B

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert warning of possible glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs), heavy rainfall and flash flooding in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The PMD said that a moderate westerly weather system is expected to enter the country’s upper parts from May 3, potentially triggering widespread rain, windstorms and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy downpours.

The department warned that the combination of rising temperatures followed by rainfall increases the likelihood of GLOF events, as well as landslides, debris flows and flash floods in vulnerable mountainous areas.

Regions identified as being at higher risk include Hopper, Gulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Bad Swat, Lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Dir and Upper Dir, where glacial lakes and steep terrain heighten the threat.

The PMD has advised residents in glacial valleys to avoid streams, rivers and low-lying areas during periods of heavy rain.

People have also been urged to remain alert for early warning signs such as sudden changes in water colour or unusual sounds, including the rumbling of rocks, and to move to safer locations if needed.

Residents have been told to shift livestock and essential belongings to higher ground and to stay in close contact with local disaster management committees.

The meteorological department said disaster response authorities are on high alert, maintaining round-the-clock monitoring and coordination with technical teams in remote areas.

Officials urged the public to remain vigilant, follow safety advisories and take precautionary measures to minimise the risk of loss of life and property.