First snowfall, rain end dry spell

Precipitation across K-P's highlands drops temperatures, lifts farmers' hopes

PESHAWAR:

The first snowfall and rain of the winter season were recorded on Tuesday across various mountainous areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and much-needed relief after a prolonged dry spell.

The change in weather has sparked joy among local residents and farmers, who see the precipitation as a blessing for agriculture and water resources.

According to local sources, light to moderate snowfall was reported in high-altitude areas in North and South Waziristan including Razmak, Angoor Adda, Shawal, Khamrang, Raghzai, Kaniguram, Badr, Ladha and surrounding regions, while intermittent rainfall continued in lower areas. Following the snowfall, mountain ranges were blanketed in white, significantly enhancing the natural beauty of the region.

Residents welcomed the shift in weather, saying the rain and snow had made the climate pleasant after months of dryness. People were seen enjoying the snowy scenery in several areas, while elders and farmers described the precipitation as a mercy from nature.

Farmers and landowners said the first snowfall 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 produce such as pine nuts (chilghoza), apples, peaches and plums.

In South Waziristan, the first snowfall of winter began overnight in mountainous areas of Birmal, Shakai, Ladha, Sam, Makeen, Shawal and Pir Ghar. District authorities said full preparations were in place to handle any untoward situation.

However, snowfall in upper areas has led to a marked decline in temperatures, and slippery conditions have partially affected movement in some remote regions.

Similar weather conditions were reported from Upper and Lower Dir, where rain lashed urban areas while snowfall continued on surrounding mountains, including Kumrat Valley, Jahaz Banda, Badgoi, Lowari Tunnel, Kalpani and Shahai. Cold winds further intensified the chill, prompting tourists to head towards scenic spots to enjoy the winter weather.

In Chitral, rain and snowfall were reported in Kalash valleys, Lowari Tunnel Road, Madak Lasht, Garam Chashma, Yarkhun, Broghil, Shandur, upper Torkhow and Terich areas.

Residents of water-scarce localities expressed happiness over the rainfall, though rising cold and scarcity 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, rain with strong winds and thunderstorms is expected across much of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with snowfall likely in upper mountainous areas. Fog may also develop in the plains. Authorities have warned of possible road blockages, landslides and avalanches in hilly regions, urging travelers and tourists to exercise extreme caution.