ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) alert for northern areas of the country, citing an approaching moderate western weather system.
The Met Office says that a moderate western weather system is expected to enter Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds and isolated intense downpours have been forecast for several northern areas.
A sudden rise in temperature followed by rainfall is identified as a contributing factor to increased flood risk, according to officials.
The risk of GLOF events, debris flows and flooding has been described as elevated in vulnerable mountain regions.
Areas identified as high risk include Hooper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, Lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Dir and Upper Dir.
Residents in glacial valleys have been advised to avoid rivers, streams and flood-prone areas during rainfall.
Sudden changes in water colour or unusual sounds in streams have been cited as warning signs requiring immediate evacuation to safer locations.
Livestock and essential belongings have been advised to be moved to elevated and secure areas.
Close coordination has been advised with community-based disaster risk management committees.
Disaster management authorities have been placed on 24-hour alert, according to officials.
Monitoring and communication with field focal persons in remote areas is being maintained.
Preventive measures have been urged to avoid loss of life and property during the expected weather activity.
Pakistan is consistently ranked among the countries most adversely affected by climate change. Climate change has triggered irregular weather patterns in the country, which include unusually heavy rains, droughts and heat waves.
