DDMA directs all departments to mobilise as heatwave threatens to trigger GLOFs, flash floods, and landslides across the region
GILGIT: The Gilgit district administration has declared a high alert in response to a weather advisory warning of an intense heatwave and the heightened risk of glacial disasters across the region.
Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Gilgit, Captain (Retd.) Arif Ahmed, issued the alert following an advisory from the Meteorological Department, urging residents, tourists, and all concerned institutions to remain vigilant and adopt precautionary measures.
Heatwave to Persist Into July
According to the Meteorological Department, above-normal temperatures and an intense heatwave are expected to persist across Gilgit-Baltistan until the first week of July. The extreme heat is likely to accelerate the melting of glaciers and snow in vulnerable valleys, resulting in increased water flow in streams, rivers, and nullahs.
Authorities have also warned of rising water levels in existing glacial lakes, their potential expansion, and the formation of new glacial lakes — significantly increasing the likelihood of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods, debris flows, and landslides.
Safety Precautions for Residents and Tourists
The Deputy Commissioner has appealed to residents, tourists, and those living near glaciers to observe the following precautions:
Stay away from riverbanks, streams, and flood channels, and closely monitor any sudden or gradual rise in water levels.
Avoid camping, trekking, and unnecessary travel near rivers, streams, glacial lakes, and narrow mountain valleys.
Stay clear of steep slopes and unstable routes where melting snow may trigger landslides or debris flows.
Immediately report any emergency situation to the relevant authorities.
Departments Placed on Full Standby
The district administration has issued directives to all concerned departments to ensure emergency readiness. The Executive Engineer of B&R Division Gilgit has been instructed to keep machinery and personnel on standby for immediate road clearance and restoration. The District Health Officer (DHO) has been directed to ensure doctors, ambulances, and medical staff are fully prepared, while Rescue 1122 has been placed on round-the-clock alert with all equipment ready.
The National Highway Authority (NHA) has been directed to ensure preparedness for highway restoration and emergency response, and the Chief Supply Officer (CSO) Gilgit has been instructed to ensure the timely supply of wheat to upper areas. Assistant Commissioners of Gilgit, Danyore, and Jaglot have also been directed to keep their field staff fully mobilised.
The Station Director of Radio Pakistan Gilgit has been instructed to repeatedly broadcast weather alerts and public safety advisories to ensure maximum outreach.
Deputy Commissioner Arif Ahmed stated that the district administration is continuously monitoring the situation and taking all necessary measures to effectively respond to any potential emergency.
Emergency Contact Numbers
Members of the public are urged to report any emergency through the following contacts:
Alpha Control Room, AC Office Gilgit: +92-5811-920724
Police Control Room: +92-5811-930346
GB DDMA: +92-5811-920875
Rescue 1122: 1122