ISLAMABAD — A glacial lake outburst flood triggered by a glacier burst inundated parts of Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region on Thursday, causing flooding and damage in the Gilgit area, authorities said.
The incident occurred in the mountainous terrain of Gilgit district, where rising temperatures and glacial melt led to the sudden release of water from a glacial lake. Local officials reported damage to homes, agricultural land and infrastructure in several villages, with rescue and relief operations underway.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) confirmed the event involved a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), a recurring hazard in the region due to climate change impacts on glaciers. Rescue teams evacuated residents from low-lying areas as floodwaters affected roads and bridges.
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Secretary reported that emergency response teams, including local administration and the Pakistan Army, were deployed to the affected sites. “Teams are on ground providing immediate relief and assessing damages,” the chief secretary said in a statement.
The region, home to thousands of glaciers, has seen increased GLOF risks in recent years. Similar events have previously damaged villages, blocked rivers and disrupted transportation in areas such as Ghizer and Hunza districts. Experts attribute the heightened frequency to accelerated glacial melting linked to higher temperatures.
No confirmed fatalities were reported as of Friday morning, though officials noted several people were rescued from flood-prone zones. Details on the exact number of affected households and the full extent of infrastructure damage remained under assessment.
The NDMA had earlier issued seasonal advisories for GLOF risks in Gilgit-Baltistan from March to September due to anticipated warmer conditions. Community-based early warning systems and evacuation plans were activated in vulnerable valleys.
International organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme, have supported long-term GLOF risk reduction projects in northern Pakistan, focusing on monitoring glacial lakes and improving resilience in remote communities.
As of Friday, floodwaters were receding in some areas, but authorities warned of potential secondary hazards such as landslides. Relief efforts continued with distribution of food, tents and medical supplies. Further updates on damages and recovery operations were expected later in the day.
