ISLAMABAD: Early morning rain and snowfall have brought relief from the prevailing dry spell in various parts of Pakistan, including Attock, Islamabad, Lahore, and Azad Kashmir.
However, the inclement weather has also caused disruptions, particularly in the picturesque Neelum Valley, where avalanches and communication failures are reported.
In Attock, Islamabad and their surrounding areas, light rain over the night brought a pleasant change in weather, bringing back the cold winds.
Water accumulation in different areas of the capital was reported, but overall, residents welcomed the refreshing breeze. In Attock, rain and thunderstorms were reported, which caused the mercury level to drop slightly. However, the rain and cool breeze turned the weather really pleasant, due to which those fasting heaved a sigh of relief.
Similarly, Lahore experienced drizzles in areas such as Gulberg, Model Town, Kalma Chowk, Mall Road, Lawrence Road, Abbot Road and their adjacent areas, adding to the pleasant atmosphere.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s upper regions, including the mountainous Neelum and Leepa Valleys, intermittent rain and light snowfall were observed again, which brought back the chilly weather.
While the urban areas enjoyed pleasant weather, the upper regions experienced a return of cold due to the snowfall. Tourists spot such as Kel, Sharda, Taobat, Gurez and Jagran Valley are also experiencing a return of chilly weather because of the rainfall.
However, this rain and snowfall brought challenges to Neelum Valley where link roads were closed due to avalanches. Furthermore, the valley also witnessed disruptions in mobile phone services and electricity supply, exacerbating the difficulties caused by the inclement weather.
Rainfall continues in the adjoining areas of Neelum Valley, including the district headquarters of Athmuqam.
Authorities are urging caution to residents and travellers, particularly in the Neelum Valley and surrounding areas, advising them to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until the weather improves. Efforts are underway to clear the blocked roads and restore communication services in the affected regions.
Meanwhile, the Met Office predicts that rain and snowfall are likely to continue intermittently in the coming days, emphasizing the need for preparedness and vigilance among the populace, especially in the mountainous regions prone to avalanches and landslides.