ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 10th May, 2026) The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Sunday warned that a moderate westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of the country, raising the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), debris flows, and flash flooding in several vulnerable areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan.
According to the PMD advisory, the weather system is likely to affect Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from today and extend to Gilgit-Baltistan by tomorrow, bringing widespread rain and wind-thunderstorms to upper parts of the country.
Isolated heavy rainfall is also expected in mountainous catchment areas during the period.
The Met Office warned that the prevailing weather conditions could significantly increase the likelihood of GLOFs and flash floods in vulnerable regions, particularly Swat, Lower Chitral, Dir, Upper Hazara, Kohistan, Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar, and Astore.
Residents living in glaciated valleys have been advised to avoid staying near riverbanks and stream beds during rainfall and remain alert for sudden changes in water colour or unusual sounds in local nullahs that may indicate debris movement.
The PMD also advised people to move livestock and essential belongings to safer and elevated locations and maintain coordination with Community-Based Disaster Risk Management Committees (CBDRMCs).
Meanwhile, disaster management authorities have been directed to ensure round-the-clock preparedness and maintain active communication with technical focal persons in remote valleys. The authorities have also been asked to disseminate weather alerts through SMS and social media platforms to ensure timely public awareness.
All concerned departments and residents of vulnerable areas have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to avoid any untoward situation during the forecast period.
