The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a critical alert for glacial lake outburst floods (Glofs) in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to an approaching fresh westerly wave.This phenomenon, characterized by sudden release of water and debris from glacial lakes, poses severe risks to over 7.1 million people in these regions.

The alert highlights that rising temperatures and heavy rainfall in glaciated valleys are accelerating snow and ice melt, leading to potential expansion of existing glacial lakes and formation of new ones.

Vulnerable downstream settlements and low-lying areas face sudden inundation and flash flooding, while unstable slopes could trigger landslides or debris flows.

The PMD advises avoiding riverbanks, stream beds, and glacial lakes, urging residents to monitor weather forecasts and disaster management authorities to take preventive measures.Pakistan's 13,032 glaciers, particularly in Chitral and GB, are receding due to climate change, exacerbating the risk of Glofs.The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) had previously warned of heightened Glof risks from March to September 2026 due to climate shifts.