Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that a moderate westerly weather system is moving into northern regions, increasing the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods, flash floods, and debris flows in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan. The system may bring widespread rain, wind, and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy rainfall in mountainous catchments. Vulnerable areas include Swat, Chitral, Dir, Kohistan, Hunza, Nagar, Shigar, and Astore. Authorities have advised residents to stay away from rivers, move valuables and livestock to safer places, and remain alert. The warning matters because floods can damage roads, bridges, homes, farms, hydropower assets, and tourism infrastructure. Can early preparedness reduce disaster losses in northern Pakistan?
