The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert to the administrations of five sensitive districts amid fears of glacial lake outburst floods in the upper regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
According to PDMA, changing weather conditions have raised the likelihood of glacier melt in Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, and Upper Kohistan. Heavy rainfall may trigger glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides in these areas.
A PDMA spokesperson said that district administrations have been instructed to take emergency measures and ensure preparedness. Authorities have also been directed to continuously monitor vulnerable glacial sites and keep early warning systems operational.
Relevant departments have been asked to conduct evacuation drills in at-risk areas, while evacuation centres must remain fully functional and equipped with necessary facilities.
PDMA has urged residents in low-lying areas to remain alert and advised local authorities to inform communities in advance about potential risks. Rescue and emergency services have been instructed to stay on standby at all times.
Necessary machinery and equipment are to be pre-positioned to respond to emergencies, while the public has been warned to avoid unnecessary movement near rivers and streams. Authorities cautioned against driving through fast-flowing water due to the risk of vehicles being swept away.
Tourists and travellers have been advised to avoid non-essential travel to sensitive regions. In case of road closures or damage, coordination with NHA, FWO, and C&W departments has been recommended.
The PDMA Emergency Operations Centre remains fully active, and citizens have been advised to contact the helpline 1700 in case of any emergency.