Torrential rains wreak havoc across Hazara Division; Siali Nullah overflows in Havelian, KKH blocked at several points

ABBOTTABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Jun, 2026) Torrential rains caused widespread disruption across the Hazara Division on Wednesday, affecting Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur and surrounding areas, while flash flooding in Havelian's historic Siali Nullah swept away vehicles, inundated homes and blocked major roads, causing significant financial losses.

According to reports, continuous heavy rainfall triggered flash floods in several streams and nullahs throughout the region. In Havelian, the decades-old Siali Nullah overflowed after intense downpours, creating panic among residents. A motor car was swept away by the strong current, while floodwaters entered dozens of houses, rising to more than four feet in some areas. Streets and narrow lanes resembled flowing rivers as residents struggled to save household belongings from the surging water.

The flooding damaged household goods, furniture and other valuables, with residents reporting losses worth hundreds of thousands of rupees. The situation brought back memories of the devastating 1997 flood in Siali Nullah, during which two women were swept away and lost their lives.

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Heavy rains also created havoc in Abbottabad, Mansehra and Haripur districts, where urban flooding was reported in low-lying areas and drainage systems came under severe pressure. Several roads were submerged, causing traffic disruptions and difficulties for commuters.

Meanwhile, the Karakoram Highway (KKH), a vital link connecting Hazara with Gilgit-Baltistan, remained blocked at several locations in Abbottabad, Havelian and Mansehra due to landslides, mudslides and debris brought down by the heavy rains. Major thoroughfares and link roads were also temporarily closed, leading to long queues of stranded vehicles.

Rescue and district administration officials remained on alert and urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in mountainous and flood-prone areas. Authorities said efforts were underway to clear blocked roads and restore normal traffic flow, while monitoring water levels in streams and nullahs across the region.

The Meteorological Department has forecast further rain in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and advised residents to exercise caution as the risk of flash flooding and landslides remains high.