Babusar Top in Kaghan Valley received the first snowfall of the season on Saturday, turning the high-altitude tourist destination into a winter-like landscape as rain and snow also affected several mountainous areas of Hazara Division.
The sudden change in weather brought relief to areas that had experienced intense heat for almost two weeks. Temperatures dropped noticeably across the valley, prompting residents to bring out sweaters, shawls and other warm clothing.
First snowfall surprises locals
The snowfall at Babusar Top came earlier than many local residents expected. People familiar with weather patterns in the area said such conditions have increasingly been associated with November in recent years.
Tourists travelling along the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad Road towards Gilgit-Baltistan were able to witness the snowfall at Babusar Top.
The early arrival of snow has added to the attraction of the region for visitors, while also marking a significant shift from the unusually warm conditions experienced across parts of Hazara in recent days.
Relief from prolonged heat
The weather change provided relief to residents after nearly two weeks of intense heat.
Temperatures in Kaghan Valley and surrounding areas fell sharply following the arrival of rain and snowfall. The cooler conditions also brought an early reminder of the winter season to communities living in and around the mountainous region.
Residents responded to the sudden drop in temperature by taking out sweaters and shawls as the weather became considerably colder.
Roads remain open
Despite the snowfall and rainfall, the local administration said important roads connecting Balakot, Mansehra, Naran and Jalkhad remained open.
The Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad Road is an important route for tourists and travellers heading towards Babusar Top and onward to Gilgit-Baltistan during the accessible travel season.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as changing weather conditions can affect road conditions in high-altitude areas.
Travellers heading towards mountainous destinations are generally advised to remain alert to changing weather and road conditions, particularly when travelling through areas affected by rain or snowfall.
Rain hits several districts
The weather system was not limited to Babusar Top. Rain was also reported in several areas of Hazara Division, including Mansehra, Torghar, Kolai-Palas, Upper Kohistan and Lower Kohistan.
The rainfall brought a further drop in temperatures across the affected areas.
However, the weather also caused disruption in at least one location when an electricity transmission pole was uprooted.
The fallen pole blocked traffic for several hours, causing inconvenience to motorists and other travellers in the affected area.
Early winter conditions draw attention
The first snowfall at Babusar Top is notable because the area typically becomes associated with much colder conditions later in the year.
The early snowfall has therefore attracted attention from both residents and tourists, particularly after a period of unusually hot weather.
For tourists travelling towards Naran, Babusar Top and other high-altitude destinations, the changing conditions could signal the need for greater preparation as temperatures continue to fluctuate.
The administration’s statement that major connecting roads remain open will provide some reassurance to travellers, although weather conditions in mountainous areas can change quickly.
The snowfall has also added a scenic winter character to Kaghan Valley, with tourists witnessing snow-covered surroundings while travelling towards Gilgit-Baltistan.
As rain and snowfall continue to affect parts of the region, authorities and travellers will be keeping a close watch on road and weather conditions in the coming days.
