PMD issues Glof alert due to westerly wave, rainfall across GB and KP
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Saturday issued an alert for glacial lake outburst floods (Glof) in the upper regions of the country, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as a result of an expected westerly wave this weekend. A Glof refers to the sudden release of water and debris from a glacial lake, leading to the loss of lives, property, and livelihoods in mountain communities. Over 7.1 million people in GB and KP are vulnerable to the phenomenon, according to the Ministry of Climate Change. In its statement, issued on Saturday, the Met Office said that a moderate westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of Pakistan from Sunday. “During this period, widespread rain, wind thunderstorms, and isolated heavy falls, are anticipated across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” the alert said. 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 glaciated valleys are 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 alert also advised residents 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 (CBDRMCs). It further directed the disaster management authorities to ensure round-the-clock alertness and maintain active communication links with technical focal persons in remote valleys. The PMD advised all concerned parties to “remain alert and take necessary measures to avoid any untoward situation”.