The first snowfall and rain of the winter season were recorded in various mountainous areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday.
PESHAWAR:
The first snow and rain of the winter season were recorded in various mountainous areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and much-needed relief from a prolonged dry spell.
Climate change has sparked joy among residents and local farmers, who see the rainfall as a blessing for agriculture and water resources.
According to local sources, light to moderate snowfall was reported in high altitude areas of North and South Waziristan, including Razmak, Angoor Adda, Shawal, Khamrang, Raghzai, Kaniguram, Badr, Ladha and surrounding areas, while intermittent rains continued in lower areas. Following the snowfall, the mountain ranges were covered in white, greatly enhancing the natural beauty of the region.
Residents welcomed the change in weather, saying rain and snow had made the climate pleasant after months of drought. People were seen enjoying the snow-covered landscape in several areas, while elders and farmers described the rainfall as a grace of nature.
Farmers and landowners said the first snow and rain are critically important from an agricultural perspective. They noted that rainwater and melting snow would increase soil moisture, benefiting wheat crops currently at a sensitive growth stage. Improved yields are also expected for orchard products such as pine nuts (chilghoza), apples, peaches and plums.
In South Waziristan, the first snowfall of the winter began overnight in the mountainous areas of Birmal, Shakai, Ladha, Sam, Makeen, Shawal and Pir Ghar. District authorities said comprehensive preparations were in place to deal with any untoward situation.
However, snowfall in upper areas led to a marked drop in temperatures, and slippery conditions partially affected travel in some remote areas.
Similar weather conditions were reported in Upper and Lower Dir, where rain lashed urban areas while snowfall continued over the surrounding mountains, including Kumrat Valley, Jahaz Banda, Badgoi, Lowari Tunnel, Kalpani and Shahai. The chilly winds further intensified the chill, prompting tourists to head to scenic spots to enjoy the winter weather.
In Chitral, rain and snow were reported in Kalash valley, Lowari Tunnel Road, Madak Lasht, Garam Chashma, Yarkhun, Broghil, Shandur, upper Torkhow and Terich areas.
Residents of water-scarce localities expressed satisfaction with the rainfall, although rising cold and shortage of firewood have led to a sharp increase in fuel prices, particularly in Lower Chitral.
According to the weather forecast for the next 24 hours, rains accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms are expected over large parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with snowfall likely in the upper mountainous areas. Fog may also develop in the plains. Authorities have warned of possible roadblocks, landslides and avalanches in mountainous regions, calling on travelers and tourists to exercise extreme caution.
