PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert for upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a new westerly weather system enters the region today. Consequently, the authorities predict heavy rainfall and strong winds, significantly increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF).
PDMA Issues GLOF Alert in KP as Melting Glaciers Threaten Five Districts
High-Risk Districts Identified
The PDMA has warned district administrations in Upper and Lower Chitral, Swat, Upper Dir, Upper Kohistan, and Mansehra. These areas face a heightened threat of flash floods and landslides due to melting glaciers and overflowing glacial lakes.
Safety Guidelines for Residents and Tourists
To ensure public safety, the PDMA has issued several critical directives:
- Avoid Movement: Local populations and tourists should stay away from rivers, streams, and storm drains.
- Monitor Surroundings: Residents must watch for sudden changes in water flow or unusual sounds of mud and rolling stones.
- Relocation: People in low-lying areas should stay alert and move to safer, higher ground if necessary.
- Livestock Protection: Move cattle and essential supplies to elevated locations immediately.
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Administrative Readiness
Furthermore, the PDMA instructed district authorities to activate timely warning systems and monitor sensitive glacial sites. Relevant departments, including the National Highway Authority (NHA), Frontier Works Organization (FWO), and Communication and Works (C&W), have been told to prepare for potential road closures.
Moreover, the PDMA’s Emergency Operation Center remains fully operational. Citizens can report emergencies or seek assistance by contacting the helpline at 1700.
