PESHAWAR, Pakistan , A mountain mudslide in northern Pakistan has created a 7-kilometer (4-mile) long lake that officials say could burst at any moment, threatening devastating floods across several districts.
The mudslide struck on Friday in Gilgit Baltistan province, blocking the main Ghizer River and forming what authorities described as a “dam-like structure.” The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said the situation is highly unstable and could cause a catastrophic disaster downstream.
“This new lake can cause a catastrophic flood,” Zakir Hussain, head of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, told Reuters. Four districts Ghizer, Gilgit, Astore and Diamer are directly at risk, he added.
The warning comes as Pakistan reels from widespread monsoon destruction. Nearly 400 people have been killed in the country’s northwest since August 15, when torrential rains and cloudbursts triggered deadly floods.
Footage shared by the NDMA shows torrents of black mud roaring down a mountainside before slamming into the river, though Reuters could not independently verify the video. Provincial spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said several mud flows from different slopes poured into the river, worsening the blockage.
According to Faraq, a shepherd was the first to notice the mudslide and quickly alerted nearby villagers and authorities. Thanks to his warning, around 200 people living in scattered mountain homes near the river were rescued before the situation escalated.
The lake has now begun releasing water, which lowers the chance of an immediate burst. Still, officials say sudden flash floods remain a threat until the blockage is fully cleared. Communities downstream have been told to stay on high alert and evacuate areas close to the river.
Since the monsoon season began in late June, floods have killed at least 785 people across Pakistan. Authorities have also warned of two more heavy rain spells expected before September 10.
