Kunhar River in spate; tourists warned of flash flood and GLOF risk amid heatwave

MANSEHRA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th Jun, 2026) Authorities have issued a high alert for tourists and residents after a significant rise in the flow of the Kunhar River due to expected heavy rainfall in the upper catchments, accelerated glacier melting and the ongoing heatwave, warning that extreme temperatures could also trigger Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the mountainous region.

On the directives of Director General Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) Rahmat Ali, KDA officials, in coordination with Tourism Police, have been deployed at various points along the Kunhar River to prevent tourists from approaching the riverbanks or entering the water. At the same time, Rescue 1122 Mansehra has launched a public safety campaign in Naran, making precautionary announcements and installing warning signboards at hazardous locations.

District Emergency Officer Mansehra Abrar Ali urged tourists to stay away from rivers, streams and other fast-flowing water channels, warning that water levels can rise suddenly because of rainfall and rapid glacier melt.

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He also advised the public to take precautions against the ongoing heatwave by avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., drinking plenty of water and keeping children, elderly people and patients protected from extreme heat.

Rescue 1122 said it remains on high alert to respond to any emergency and appealed to tourists to cooperate with the authorities, follow all safety advisories and immediately call 1122 in case of an emergency, emphasizing that vigilance is essential as the combination of heavy rains, intense heat and accelerated glacier melting increases the risk of flash floods and potential GLOF incidents in the region.