PDMA puts upper KP districts on high alert for GLOFs, flash floods

PESHAWAR, May 19 (APP):The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Tuesday issued a high alert across upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after a new weather system entered the region, raising the risk of heavy rainfall, strong winds, flash floods and landslides.

According to the PDMA, six districts have been declared highly sensitive due to extreme weather conditions. It warned that rising temperatures and intense rainfall could trigger Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in mountainous areas, potentially leading to sudden flooding.

The districts most at risk include Upper and Lower Chitral, Swat, Upper Dir, Upper Kohistan and Mansehra.

The PDMA has directed district administrations to remain on high alert, continuously monitor vulnerable glacial sites, activate community warning systems and ensure timely emergency alerts to minimize possible loss of life and property.

Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers, streams and mountainous routes. People living in low-lying areas have also been urged to stay alert and move to safer locations in case of emergencies.

In addition, local administrations have been instructed to conduct emergency drills, keep evacuation centers operational and ensure the availability of rescue teams and machinery.

The PDMA further advised citizens in sensitive areas to immediately move to safe locations if they notice sudden changes in water flow or hear unusual sounds of falling rocks or mudslides.