The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) warning. This comes after continuous rains and rising temperatures increased the risk of glacier melting. Mountain regions in Chitral, Swat, Dir, and Kohistan are most vulnerable. Over 7.1 million people in KP and Gilgit-Baltistan remain exposed to this threat, according to the Ministry of Climate Change.
In its latest advisory, PDMA urged residents to stay alert and avoid rivers and fast-flowing water. Authorities have set up evacuation centers in high-risk areas and are preparing for emergencies. Tourists are also advised to take extra precautions during their visits. The agency confirmed that rescue teams are equipped and on high alert to respond quickly if needed.
The advisory follows a deadly spell of monsoon rain that has claimed 64 lives across Pakistan, including 23 in KP. The Swat Valley alone saw 14 deaths due to flash floods, many of them children. PDMA said the new wave of monsoon rains from July 5 to 11 could worsen conditions, with more flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding expected.
Officials say areas like Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan are at high risk of urban flooding. Riverine flooding could occur in the Chitral, Swat, Panjkora, and Kabul rivers. PDMA has asked local governments to keep drainage systems clear and ensure effective water flow to reduce risk.
The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains active and available to the public. People can contact the helpline at 1700 for help or updates. Authorities have also started awareness campaigns to inform people about safety steps and emergency preparedness. PDMA continues to coordinate with departments like NHA, FWO, and CWD for quick road restoration and rescue access.