The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Wednesday warned of a significant rise in water levels in rivers, streams and nullahs across the glaciated regions of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) due to accelerated snow and glacier melt, coupled with recent rainfall, cautioning that the prevailing conditions could trigger localized flooding and riverbank erosion.
PMD warns of rising water levels in GB, KP rivers due to accelerated glacier melt, rainfall
ISLAMABAD, Jul 22 (APP): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Wednesday warned of a significant rise in water levels in rivers, streams and nullahs across the glaciated regions of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) due to accelerated snow and glacier melt, coupled with recent rainfall, cautioning that the prevailing conditions could trigger localized flooding and riverbank erosion.
According to the PMD, real-time observations from the hydrometeorological monitoring network installed for Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) monitoring in different valleys indicate that many snow-fed and glacier-fed watercourses are currently flowing at peak levels as a result of accelerated snow and glacier melt, combined with recent rains.
The department said the prevailing hydrological conditions could lead to riverbank erosion, land wasting and localized flooding in vulnerable areas. It added that the existing weather system may further increase the likelihood of the current high-flow conditions developing into medium to high flood situations in susceptible valleys and downstream areas.
The PMD advised all concerned authorities, district administrations and communities residing near rivers and streams to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement near watercourses, closely monitor official weather updates and remain prepared to respond promptly to any emergency situation.
