Record-breaking temperatures in Gilgit have triggered glacier melt, unleashing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) that have caused extensive damage to infrastructure and agricultural land.

According to officials, the unusually high temperatures accelerated melting in the upper reaches, swelling streams and glacial lakes beyond their normal capacity.

Floodwaters have washed away several roads, inundated farmlands, and disrupted transport in multiple valleys.

Residents reported that sudden surges of muddy water and debris inundated fields and cut off access to villages, prompting emergency response teams to move in.

Authorities have warned that continued high temperatures could lead to more outburst events in the coming days.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has urged locals to remain vigilant, avoid risky travel in affected areas, and follow advisories as further assessments and relief efforts are underway.

The phenomenon underscores growing concerns over climate change’s impact on the fragile mountain ecosystem, where rising heat is increasing the frequency and severity of glacial hazards.