Heavy rainfall across Abbottabad, Mansehra and other parts of Hazara Division on Friday brought a marked change in weather, with a noticeable drop in temperatures giving residents an early feel of the winter season. The rain affected several areas of the region, including Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Kohistan and Torghar, turning the weather considerably cooler after weeks of relatively warm conditions.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department had forecast rain and thunderstorms in these districts, while the Provincial Disaster Management Authority also listed the Hazara districts among areas likely to receive rainfall. The spell of rain prompted residents to bring out warmer clothes as cool winds accompanied the showers in many areas. The change was particularly noticeable in the higher parts of Abbottabad, Mansehra and adjoining mountainous areas.

In Mansehra, weather records for September 24 showed a minimum temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius, while rainfall was also recorded during the day. The fresh spell has also changed the overall atmosphere across the Hazara region, with cooler mornings and evenings expected to become more pronounced as autumn progresses towards winter. According to the metrological department, a weak westerly weather system is affecting the upper parts of the country, with isolated to scattered rain and thunderstorms expected in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Hazara districts, through the coming days.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)