Mudslide Creates Dangerous Lake in Gilgit-Baltistan, Threatening Floods Downstream

A massive mudflow in northern Pakistan has blocked the Ghizer River, forming a precarious lake that authorities warn could trigger catastrophic flooding if it bursts.

The mudslide, which occurred Friday in Gilgit-Baltistan province, completely obstructed the river channel, creating what officials described as a “dam-like structure.” In a situation report, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) cautioned that the new lake poses a significant risk to nearby communities.

“The lake can cause a catastrophic flood,” Zakir Hussain, director general of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), told Reuters. He warned that four downstream districts — Ghizer, Gilgit, Astore, and Diamer — remain under immediate threat.

The formation of the lake comes amid one of Pakistan’s deadliest monsoon seasons in years. Nearly 400 people have died in the country’s northern mountain regions since mid-August due to torrential rains and sudden cloudbursts, according to officials. Nationwide, floods since late June have killed 785 people.

Footage shared by the NDMA on social media showed torrents of black mud cascading down the mountainside before pouring into the riverbed. Reuters reported it could not independently verify the video, which officials said was recorded by local residents. Provincial spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed that several mudslides from surrounding mountains had converged on the river.

A shepherd grazing his livestock on higher ground was the first to witness the mud surge and quickly alerted nearby villagers and authorities, Faraq said. Thanks to the early warning, rescue teams were able to evacuate nearly 200 people from scattered homes along the river and the valley slopes before the flow intensified.

While the lake has begun discharging water, easing some immediate pressure, the risk has not fully subsided. Officials cautioned that flash floods in downstream districts remain possible until the obstruction is cleared completely. “The threat of a burst is receding, but downstream communities cannot lower their guard,” Faraq said.

Authorities have instructed residents living near riverbanks to remain on high alert and vacate vulnerable areas. Emergency teams continue to monitor the situation closely, with additional resources on standby in case of sudden flooding.

The NDMA has also warned that Pakistan may face two more monsoon rain spells before September 10, which could worsen conditions in the already flood-hit northern regions.

As Pakistan grapples with recurring natural disasters tied to extreme weather, the sudden creation of the lake underscores the challenges facing vulnerable mountain communities. For now, officials say vigilance and preparedness are critical to preventing further tragedy in Gilgit-Baltistan and beyond.