Heavy rain causes flooding, traffic disruptions across Abbottabad

ABBOTTABAD, Jul 31 (APP):Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds lashed Abbottabad and its adjoining hilly areas on Friday, causing streams and nullahs to overflow and inundating major roads across the city.

Several feet of rainwater accumulated on the Karakoram Highway, Murree Road, PMA Road, and other key arteries, including Mandian, Supply, and Jinnahabad, severely disrupting the flow of traffic. Water also entered low-lying areas and link roads, creating difficulties for residents, while long queues of vehicles were reported on major highways due to flooding and traffic congestion.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), intermittent heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the next 24 hours in Abbottabad and other parts of Hazara Division. The department has warned that intense downpours may trigger urban flooding in low-lying areas, flash flooding in local streams and nullahs, and landslides in vulnerable hilly regions.

The PMD has advised tourists planning to visit Galiyat, Nathiagali, Thandiani, Kaghan Valley, and other mountainous destinations to stay updated on weather conditions and road status before travelling. Local residents have also been urged to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly near rivers, streams, and flood-prone areas, and to exercise extreme caution during periods of heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, local authorities have appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve. Citizens undertaking essential journeys have been advised to use alternate routes where possible and drive with extreme caution to ensure their safety.