North of Pakistan faces the risk of glacial floods, as turbulent rivers have engulfed Punjab region

In northern Pakistan, the focus of the GLOF-II Project remains unchanged - monitoring glacier-fed basins to detect early warnings of glacial melt-induced flooding. This is crucial as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) pose a significant threat in the high mountains of the region.

Unfortunately, this monsoon season has already seen its share of destruction. GLOFs have already wreaked havoc across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, destroying infrastructure and stranding tourists. Urban flooding has been reported in Peshawar in KP and Lahore in Punjab during this fresh monsoon spell, but there is no mention of new GLOF-related incidents.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has stated that hydro-meteorological data shows a significant rise in temperature values, much higher than normal, which may accelerate glacier melt. This could potentially lead to a repeat of the catastrophic 2022 monsoon season, where over 1,700 people lost their lives and the country suffered more than $30 billion in damage.

The authorities have warned of this potential repeat, especially in specific locations such as Arkari in Chitral, Badswat and Darkut in Ghizer, Hisper Hoper in Nagar, Ghundus in Shigar, and Gulkhin in Hunza. These areas are particularly at risk due to an increased probability of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) and flash floods caused by accelerated glacier melt.

The impact of these floods extends beyond infrastructure damage. Tens of thousands of farming families have been uprooted in various districts of Punjab and are living in tent cities. They have lost their standing crops and animals due to the monsoon floods.

In an effort to help, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is offering free voice calls to users in flood-hit areas. This facility is intended to allow customers with zero balance to stay connected with their families and access emergency services.

As the monsoon season continues, it is crucial that the public remains vigilant and follows all safety guidelines issued by the authorities. The GLOF-II Project will continue its efforts to monitor glacier-fed basins in northern Pakistan, working tirelessly to provide early warnings and help mitigate the impacts of these natural disasters.