In northern Pakistan, traditional wisdom passed through generations is helping rural communities face growing climate threats like melting glaciers, floods, and heavy storms. While modern early warning systems exist, many villagers still rely on local signs such as changes in animal behavior, cloud patterns, and thunder sounds to sense danger before official alerts arrive.
In Gilgit Baltistan, when a glacier burst caused flash floods, a shepherd used an old signal — firing his rifle — to warn others. The gunshot echoed through mosque loudspeakers, leading to a quick evacuation that saved lives, even though homes and farmland were destroyed.
Despite millions invested in technology such as sensors, sirens, and automated flood alerts, these systems often fail or reach people too late. Many devices remain unused or disconnected due to poor maintenance and limited communication with local rescue teams.
The government has started recognizing the importance of community knowledge, rewarding local heroes who act on instinct and experience to protect their villages. Officials now see that traditional warning methods are not outdated customs but valuable tools for survival.
As climate change worsens, Pakistan is learning to combine technology with indigenous wisdom. In times when machines fall silent, it is often the people who still hear nature’s warning first.