The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast near-normal monsoon rainfall for Gilgit-Baltistan, adjoining parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while warning that above-normal temperatures may increase the risk of floods, landslides and glacial hazards.
In its 2026 monsoon outlook for the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya region, the PMD said temperatures would likely remain above normal across most mountain areas.
It said eastern parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and nearby regions may experience stronger warming, which could speed up snow and glacier melt.
The department warned that faster glacier melt, combined with seasonal rainfall, may increase river flows and raise flood risks in vulnerable valleys.
It added that intense, short-duration rain spells could trigger flash floods, landslides, debris flows and slope failures in mountainous areas.
The PMD also cautioned that warmer conditions may increase the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and urged communities living near rivers, streams and glacial valleys to stay alert and follow official advisories.
The department said near-normal rainfall would help improve water availability, but stressed that localised heavy rain could still create serious hydro-meteorological hazards.
Meanwhile, landslides, river erosion and flash floods have already disrupted movement in Gilgit-Baltistan. The Gilgit-Baltistan Communication and Works Department said landslides and large rockfalls have closed the Astore Valley Road at several points.
Road links to Chipurson Valley and Misgar Valley in upper Hunza have also been blocked by landslides and mudflows following rainfall, cutting off remote communities and adding fresh urgency to monsoon preparedness.
Get the latest news and stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
Shares
