The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a glacial lake outburst flood (Glof) alert for Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning of heightened risks due to climate change and ongoing snow/ice melt.This follows a fifth consecutive day of road closures in GB regions, with flash floods and Glofs disrupting connectivity and stranding commuters.

The PMD attributes the situation to a warm thermal regime and intermittent rainfall, which accelerate glacier melt and raise water levels in river streams.Vulnerable downstream areas, low-lying regions near riverbeds, and narrow valleys face significant flood risks.

The Met Office highlights potential impacts including sudden high flows, flash flooding, and destabilization of glacial lakes, which could trigger catastrophic Glof events.Over 7.1 million people in GB and KP are at risk, with 13,032 glaciers in the region facing recession due to rising temperatures.

Authorities are working to restore roads, including installing a temporary iron bridge on the Baltistan Highway, while disaster management teams emphasize precautionary measures for residents in glaciated valleys.The situation underscores the growing environmental challenges and the need for coordinated disaster response.