SHANGLA: After a prolonged spell of severe dry cold and freezing temperatures, Shangla has finally received much-needed rainfall, while light snowfall has continued in the hilly areas since the intervening night between Sunday and Monday. The weather system intensified on Monday, turning into heavy rain across much of the district, while light snowfall was recorded in most mountainous and upper regions. For the past three weeks, the absence of rain and snowfall had led to an unusual increase in cold intensity across the valley, with temperatures in several areas dropping below the freezing point.
Also Read: Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Travel in Hazara Division, Roads Blocked
Due to the prolonged dry and harsh winter, natural springs, waterfalls, and seasonal streams in various parts of Shangla had dried up, while low temperatures caused natural water reservoirs to freeze. As a result, residents faced a severe shortage of drinking water. The reduced water level in rivers and local streams had also badly affected the output of small hydropower plants and traditional water mills operating across the district. Several local powerhouses had been shut down, leading to an increase in load shedding and adding to public hardships. With the onset of rainfall and snowfall, hopes have now risen for an improvement in water levels and the restoration of electricity generation. Since the night between Sunday and Monday, light snowfall has been reported in Shangla Top, Yakh Tangi Top, Shaheedi Sar Top, Kundao, Chakaiser Top, Kara, and other mountainous areas.
Meanwhile, on Monday, Alpuri and other residential areas experienced intermittent heavy rainfall. The rain further intensified the cold weather, while reduced visibility in upper regions also affected traffic flow on mountainous routes. On Monday, due to intermittent heavy rain in Alpuri, Chakaiser, Puran, Besham, and surrounding areas, markets and commercial centers remained largely deserted, and a majority of residents stayed indoors. However, farmers and landowners welcomed the rain and snowfall, terming it a positive development for crops, orchards, and natural water resources.
According to the Meteorological Department, the current spell of rain and snowfall in Shangla and adjoining areas is likely to continue for the next four to five days, which may lead to a further drop in temperatures. In view of the prevailing weather conditions, the district administration has advised citizens and travelers to exercise caution while traveling through Shangla Top, Yakh Tangi Top, Shaheedi Sar Top, Kundao, Chakaiser Top, Kara, and other upper areas. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and to adopt precautionary measures in light of the weather situation. The administration further stated that all relevant departments have been put on alert to deal with any emergency situation, while snow-clearing machinery has been kept on standby in upper areas to ensure the safety of residents and travelers.
