PDMA issues GLOF alert in five districts of KP

PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday issued a Glacial Lake Outburst Flooding (GLOF) alert in five mountainous districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

PDMA issued an alert in the wake of persistent higher-than-normal temperatures and an expected rain spell from Saturday to Monday next week.

In a weather advisory issued by PDMA, a warning was sent to the Deputy Commissioners of Chitral Lower, Chitral Upper, Dir Upper, Swat, and Kohistan Upper.

“The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has intimated that due to persistent higher than normal temperatures and expected rain spells from July 6 to 8 in upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, there is an increased likelihood of triggering GLOF events, flash floods, landslides and a rise in river stream flows due to melting,” reads the advisory.

PDMA stated that the warmer conditions are expected to persist until mid-July and it is therefore requested to kindly take all precautionary measures to avoid any loss of life, livestock, and damages to infrastructure, and crops.

Furthermore, all concerned authorities are requested to ensure the local community of at-risk, vulnerable areas is forewarned. Concerned departments are instructed to ensure the availability of Emergency, and rescue services personnel during the period.

“Coordinate with Concerned Departments (NHA, FWO and C&W) for the timely restoration of roads in case of any blockage, obstruction, closures and damage,” the advisory added.