HUNZA: A part of the Ultar Glacier in Hunza Valley recently collapsed, causing a sudden icy blizzard along with strong winds creating panic and fear amongst the locals.
According to locals, the sudden collapse and melting of the glacier came as a surprise to them as mostly such events take place during the months of March and April, before summer.
The sudden retreat of the glacier triggered a blizzard and icy winds as cold swept through the entire Hunza valley.
Experts say the early collapse shows how rising temperatures are affecting glaciers, making them unstable.
The incident also highlights the risk of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF). This happens when water from a glacier lake suddenly bursts out, potentially causing floods in nearby low-lying areas.
Authorities have asked the local departments to closely monitor the glaciers and weather to prevent any disaster and protect the population.
In 2018 a major rock and ice avalanche hit the Ultar Glacier in Hunza. Locals described it as a “collapse” or “landslide.” The incident killed three tourists and sent a huge dust cloud sweeping over Karimabad for a short time.
