ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday advised citizens to remain alert as intermittent pre-monsoon rains are expected across Pakistan from June 28 to July 3.
According to NDMA officials speaking to media channels, the combination of extreme heat and anticipated pre-monsoon rainfall could accelerate glacier melting, leading to a sharp increase in water levels in rivers and streams across Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The authority warned that vulnerable mountainous areas could face increased risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides during the forecast period due to rapidly changing and unstable weather conditions.
Residents, tourists, and travellers 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 urged the public to avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams, glacial lakes, and riverbanks, while stressing the need to immediately report any unusual or hazardous conditions to local authorities to help prevent loss of life and property.
Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have been placed on high alert and directed to ensure complete emergency preparedness, rapid response capability, and coordinated action in case of any disaster caused by the expected weather system.
The NDMA stressed that timely precautions, strict compliance with safety advisories, and coordinated preparedness at all levels were crucial to minimise risks, protect lives, and reduce potential damage from weather-related hazards.