The hilly regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, have recently witnessed the first snowfall of the pre-winter season, leading to a significant drop in temperatures and affecting daily life in the area. In particular, Mansehra and the Kaghan Valley experienced substantial snowfall, which had various consequences.
The snowfall began around 3 pm and continued intermittently throughout the day, resulting in a noticeable chill in the weather. Road closures were a major impact, with the authorities taking precautionary measures by shutting down key routes. The Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad road, a crucial connection between different regions, was closed at Babusar Top due to the heavy snowfall. Similarly, the MNJ road linking KP with Gilgit-Baltistan was blocked for all traffic, affecting the movement of vehicles and passenger coaches beyond the Battakundi area. The areas around Loluputsar Lake and Babusar Top were particularly covered in snow.
In other parts of the Hazara division, there was light rain, contributing to the overall drop in temperatures. Hilly areas like Spenghar, Gamtal, and Lilownai experienced snowfall, while regions such as Bisham, Alpuri, Puran, Chakiser, Shahpur, Dandai, Martung, and others in the district received rainfall. Unfortunately, this rain disrupted the electricity supply in Bisham city and its surroundings.
Additionally, the unusual weather patterns brought a hailstorm that damaged standing crops in various areas, including Kamali Haleemzai, Gandawo Halimzai, and Pandiali, impacting the livelihoods of local farmers.
Overall, this early snowfall and adverse weather conditions underscore the need for preparedness and caution in these hilly regions as they transition into the winter season.
