Sun Aug 24 07:26:24 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
A mudslide in northern Pakistan has created a 7-km lake in the Ghizer River channel, posing a serious threat of catastrophic flooding to four downstream districts (Ghizer, Gilgit, Astore and Diamer) . The lake, formed due to a blockage creating a “dam-like structure,” is in Gilgit Baltistan province. While some water has begun discharging, the risk of flash floods remains until the lake is completely cleared. Nearly 400 people have died in the region since August 15 due to monsoon rains and cloudbursts. Authorities have evacuated around 200 people and are urging those downstream to stay on high alert and vacate river areas. The broader monsoon season in Pakistan has already claimed 785 lives since late June, and more rain is expected.
**News Article:**
**Pakistan Braces for Potential Catastrophic Floods After Mudslide Creates Massive Lake**
*Peshawar, Pakistan – August 24, 2025* – Authorities in northern Pakistan are on high alert after a significant mudslide created a 7-kilometer (4-mile) long lake in the Ghizer River channel, threatening to unleash potentially catastrophic floods downstream. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned on Saturday that the blockage, which occurred on Friday in Gilgit Baltistan province, has formed a “dam-like structure” posing a significant risk of bursting.
The four downstream districts of Ghizer, Gilgit, Astore, and Diamer, are particularly vulnerable. Zakir Hussain, director general of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, told Reuters that these areas face a serious threat.
The mudslide, which was captured on video and shared by the NDMA, illustrates the sheer scale of the geological event. According to provincial government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, a shepherd first spotted the mudflow and alerted villagers and authorities, allowing for the rescue of nearly 200 people from the surrounding mountainsides.
While the lake has begun discharging water, easing the immediate threat of a complete burst, officials warn that flash floods remain a distinct possibility until the obstruction is entirely cleared. Communities downstream have been instructed to stay vigilant and evacuate areas near the river.
This latest crisis compounds an already dire situation in Pakistan, where severe monsoon rains and cloudbursts have claimed the lives of nearly 400 people since August 15. Nationwide, the monsoon season, which began in late June, has resulted in 785 fatalities. The NDMA has issued warnings for two more spells of heavy rain expected by September 10, raising concerns that the devastation may continue.
The situation is being closely monitored as authorities work to mitigate the potential impact of the newly formed lake and provide assistance to affected communities.
First Piper 