PMD issues Glof alert for KP, Gilgit-Baltistan as rainfall predicted in upper Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert for glacial lake outburst floods (Glof) for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, it emerged on Monday. According to the alert issued by the PMD on Sunday night, a moderate westerly wave was expected to enter the upper regions of the country. It said that the weather system was expected to hit KP and extend to Gilgit-Baltistan by Monday. During this period, the department predicted widespread rain and wind-thunderstorms, with isolated heavy falls in mountainous catchments. “The weather patterns significantly elevated the risk of Glofs, debris flow, and flash flooding in vulnerable areas, especially in Swat, lower Chitral, Dir, Upper Hazara, Kohistan, Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar and Astore,” it said The Met department advised people in glacial valleys to avoid proximity to riverbanks and stream beds during the rainfall; monitor local nullahs for sudden changes in water colour (muddiness) or unusual sounds (grinding rocks); and secure livestock and essentials on higher ground. It also directed the disaster management authorities to ensure round-the-clock preparedness and maintain active communication with technical focal persons in remote valleys. Authorities were also asked to disseminate weather alerts through text message and social media platforms to ensure timely public awareness. “All concerned departments and residents of vulnerable areas have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to avoid any untoward situation during the forecast period,” it said. Separately, the KP Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued instructions to the deputy commissioners of Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan and Mansehra. It directed the officials to undertake proactive monitoring and surveillance of vulnerable Glof sites to ensure timely early warning and response. The district administrations were also told to condu