Abbottabad hit by first Monsoon downpour after three-day heatwave; hailstorm causes widespread damage

ABBOTTABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Jul, 2026) The first monsoon rain of the season lashed Abbottabad on Wednesday after three consecutive days of intense heat, bringing heavy rainfall and hail that severely disrupted normal life across the city.

The ongoing downpour inundated low-lying areas, with rainwater entering numerous homes, commercial buildings, and public facilities, leaving residents facing significant difficulties.

The hailstorm caused extensive damage to solar panels installed on residential and commercial properties, while several vehicles also sustained damage. Major roads, including Mansehra Road, Murree Road, and other key arteries, were submerged, resulting in severe traffic congestion. Long queues of vehicles were reported as commuters struggled to reach their destinations amid waterlogged roads.

The city's drainage system once again proved inadequate as rainwater accumulated in streets and residential neighborhoods, turning many roads into pools of standing water.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

Citizens urged the concerned authorities to take immediate measures to improve drainage and provide relief to affected areas. No official reports of casualties had been received at the time of filing this report.

The heavy rain was continuing, effectively bringing life in Abbottabad to a standstill. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, monsoon activity is expected to persist across upper parts of the country, including Abbottabad and the Galiyat region, with intermittent heavy rainfall and possible hailstorms forecast through July 5.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from streams and low-lying areas, and exercise caution during the ongoing spell of severe weather.