A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in the Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan caused widespread flooding and destruction, creating an artificial lake.
Government spokesperson Faizullah Firaq reported that the disaster formed an artificial lake in the Gupis area. Floodwaters submerged several villages and blocked the Gilgit-Shandur Road. Timely warnings helped prevent any loss of life.
An outburst at Tali Das in Gupis, where landslides blocked the Ghizer River starting at 3 AM, created a large artificial lake, according to the district’s additional deputy commissioner. This blockage flooded nearby communities and cut off access to Raushan village due to landslides from two directions. Early alerts enabled residents to evacuate safely, and authorities confirmed no fatalities.
The river flow in Ghizer has been impeded by a massive GLOF. Entire villages have been washed away in Gilgit Baltistan’s Rawashin earlier this morning. pic.twitter.com/cjGzFN6sJP
— Iftikhar Firdous (@IftikharFirdous) August 22, 2025Shams Lone, the Home Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, confirmed the rescue of more than 50 people. The Force Command Northern Areas deployed a helicopter for emergency evacuations. The Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan personally oversees the situation to coordinate relief efforts. Authorities actively work to clear debris and restore access amid concerns of further flooding from the artificial lake.
Glacier Burst in Gupis Tali Das!A massive glacier outburst has blocked River Ghizer. Thousands have fled to save their lives, while hundreds remain trapped. Immediate helicopter rescue operations are urgently needed! #DecleareEmergencyInGB #GlacierOutbrust #Ghizer #TaliDas pic.twitter.com/y8U21oOu6Z
— Azeem Hunzai (@azeem_hunzai) August 22, 2025The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts rain, wind, and thundershowers in Gilgit-Baltistan from August 23 to 27. Heavy rainfall will likely affect Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar. The PMD warned that landslides and mudslides may disrupt road access and urged residents and authorities to remain vigilant. Additionally, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) recommends using its Disaster Alert App for real-time updates.
The GLOF event stems from climate-driven glacial melting and follows similar incidents in Ghizer, including a notable 2018 event that formed an artificial lake in Immit Valley. UNDP data highlight that Gilgit-Baltistan contains over 3,000 glacial lakes, with 33 identified as hazardous, underscoring the region’s growing risks.
