Met Office warns of glacier lake outburst risk in northern areas

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued an alert warning that higher-than-normal temperatures could pose a threat to northern mountainous regions, increasing the risk of glacier lake outburst floods.

According to the advisory, glacial lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan and upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may be at risk of bursting due to rising temperatures and changing weather conditions.

The department also forecast a widespread weather system likely to affect Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from March 10 to March 12. The system could increase the likelihood of landslides and flash floods in vulnerable mountainous areas.

Authorities warned that unstable slopes and melting glaciers may trigger landslides, posing risks to local communities and infrastructure.

Residents in potentially affected areas have been advised to remain vigilant and keep track of weather updates, while relevant government departments have been directed to take precautionary measures to safeguard human lives and infrastructure.

All concerned agencies have been instructed to remain on alert and ensure preparedness to deal with any emergency situation arising from the forecast weather conditions.