Rains in Karachi. Photo: APP (file)
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday advised citizens to remain alert as intermittent pre-monsoon rains were expected across Pakistan from June 28 to July 3.
According to NDMA officials speaking to media channels, a dangerous combination of intense heat and expected pre-monsoon rains would likely accelerate the melting of glaciers, causing a sharp rise in water levels in rivers and streams in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The authority warned that vulnerable mountainous regions face increased risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF), flash floods and landslides during the forecast period due to unstable and rapidly changing weather conditions.
Residents, tourists and travelers have been strongly advised to exercise extreme caution in high-risk districts including Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper and Lower Chitral and Swat, where sudden weather changes could create life-threatening situations.
The NDMA further urged the public to strictly avoid unnecessary movements near rivers, streams, glacial lakes and river banks, stressing the importance of immediately reporting any unusual or dangerous conditions to local authorities to avoid loss of life and property.
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The Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMA) have been put on high alert with strict instructions to ensure full emergency preparedness, rapid response capability and coordinated action in case of any disaster triggered by the expected weather system.
Overall, the NDMA emphasized that timely precautions, strict compliance with safety advisories and coordinated preparedness at all levels were essential to minimize risks, protect lives and reduce potential harm from expected climate-related hazards.
