Abdul Khaliq Qureshi Abbottabad
Torrential rainfall pounded the city starting Sunday at 2 p.m., continuing well into the late evening hours. The deluge flooded the streets, with sewage overflowing and making movement nearly impossible for pedestrians. Dark clouds loomed over the hilltops, signaling the likelihood of more rain to come.
The heavy downpour proved detrimental to the region’s well-ripened wheat crops, which had not yet been harvested. The sky, filled with ominous clouds, painted a gloomy picture across the landscape, hinting at further rainfall in the forecast.
Reports from the hilltops warned of potential shortages in food supplies if the rain persisted indefinitely. Despite trade centers being fully stocked with essentials, including fruits, customers were scarce, likely deterred by the challenging weather conditions. The Karakorum Highway, usually bustling with activity, wore a deserted look due to the relentless rain.
In neighboring districts of Hazara, including Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Torghar, and Shangla, similar weather conditions prevailed. While temperatures ranged from a chilly -15°C to a milder 23°C throughout the day, no significant wind was reported. Rivers such as the Sindh, Jhelum, Kunhar, and Neelum flowed normally, without causing any flooding.