ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a stark warning about severe weather threats during the upcoming monsoon season, advising tourists to avoid vulnerable northern areas between June 25 and July 30 due to risks of heavy rainfall, flooding, and glacier melting.
In an interview on Friday, NDMA expert Dr. Tayyab Shah highlighted the sharp contrast in weather conditions across Pakistan. He said the first phase of the monsoon is expected to bring dangerous conditions, including intense rainfall, strong winds, thunderstorms, flash floods, glacier melting, and rising flood risks in vulnerable areas. Dr. Shah explained that delayed snowfall between February and March disrupted the natural seasonal cycle, leading to accelerated glacier melting and increased water flow in rivers and streams across northern Pakistan.
The NDMA also warned of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), noting that rising temperatures and rapid glacier melt could trigger sudden flash floods and landslides in glacier-prone regions in the coming weeks. Tourists planning summer vacations in northern areas are urged to remain extremely cautious and stay updated with official forecasts and advisories.
Separately, the NDMA issued an extreme heatwave alert for southern parts of the country. Lower Sindh, southern Punjab, and eastern Balochistan are expected to be among the worst-affected regions. Citizens in these areas have been advised to take precautionary measures, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak daytime hours, stay hydrated, and follow official weather advisories to minimize heat-related health risks.
Responding to a question, Dr. Shah said the second phase of the monsoon is likely to be less severe than the first, with comparatively lower rainfall intensity and reduced weather-related hazards. However, he advised tourists to remain cautious and stay updated with official forecasts before traveling to northern areas.
Pakistan is no stranger to climate-induced disasters. According to the Reuters, the country experienced catastrophic floods in 2022 that affected millions. The Al Jazeera has also reported on Pakistan’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events linked to climate change.
Source: ARY News