Heavy Rain, Hailstorms Impact KP, Punjab Regions

Pakistan’s Upper Regions Brace for More Rain and Snow

A fresh spell of rain and hailstorms has affected several regions of Pakistan, including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Kashmir. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rainfall was recorded in Swat Valley, Karak, Malakand, Abbottabad, and Mansehra. Snowfall in Galiyat and Naran Valley has significantly lowered temperatures in these areas.

In Neelum Valley, tourists stranded due to a landslide were successfully rescued after around 30 vehicles became stuck in the Sheikh Bela area. Rescue teams, police, and local administration moved affected tourists to safer locations overnight. However, intermittent rainfall continues, and landslides have blocked parts of the Neelum Highway near Muzaffarabad.

Rain was also recorded in upper areas of Ziarat Valley, as well as Toba Achakzai and Toba Kakari. Meanwhile, a landslide near Lachi Nala has temporarily blocked the Karakoram Highway.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast further rain in the country’s upper regions. The National Disaster Management Authority has also warned of heavy rainfall across many areas in the next 12 to 24 hours, with snowfall expected in mountainous regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir.

Authorities have advised commuters to remain cautious, as slippery roads and potential landslides may disrupt travel, particularly in hilly terrain.