Heavy rains continued to pound Azad Kashmir, including Neelum Valley, Lipa Valley, and Jhelum Valley, since Tuesday night, causing widespread disruptions. Several communication roads have been closed, electricity and phone services have been severely affected in many areas, according to local authorities. The downpour also increased water flow in rivers and streams, raising concerns about potential flooding. The heavy rain has also been reported in other districts such as Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli Sudhnoti, causing similar disruptions. The Meteorological Department has forecast that intermittent rains will persist across the region until August 31. The administration has advised travelers and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel in hilly areas due to the heightened risk of landslides and road closures. In Abbottabad, where it has rained for the third consecutive day in Galyat, Haveliyan, and surrounding areas, the weather has turned pleasant, but the risk of flooding in rivers and canals remains.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan