Severe Cold Wave Forces Widespread School Closures Across India

A severe cold wave sweeping across large parts of India has disrupted academic schedules, prompting state governments and district administrations to close schools, extend winter vacations, and revise class timings to protect students. Persistent dense fog and plummeting temperatures have affected visibility, travel, and daily routines, with authorities urging parents to monitor local advisories closely.

State-wise School Closures and Schedule Updates:

• Delhi:All schools will remain closed untilJanuary 15, 2026, extending the winter vacation (DoE).

• Haryana:Schools closed fromJanuary 1–15, 2025, reopening on January 16.

• Uttar Pradesh – Gautam Buddh Nagar & Ghaziabad:Schools up to Class 8 closed untilJanuary 10due to cold and fog.

• Jammu & Kashmir:In the Kashmir Valley and Jammu region, schools up to Class 8 reopenMarch 1, 2026, and higher classes resumeFebruary 22, 2026.

• Punjab:Schools remain closed untilJanuary 13, 2026, reopening on January 14.

• Varanasi:Schools up to Class 8 closedJanuary 7–9.

• Lucknow:Schools up to Class 8 closed untilJanuary 8, 2026, including government, private, and KGBVs.

• Rajasthan – Jaipur & Jalore:Jaipur – Classes 1–5 closed untilJanuary 10, Classes 6–8 reopen January 9; Jalore – pre-primary to Class 5 closed untilJanuary 10.

• Telangana:Schools statewide closed untilJanuary 16, 2026, reopening January 17.

• Tripura:Schools closedJanuary 6–10, 2026.

• Jharkhand:Schools closed statewideJanuary 6–8, 2026for Nursery through Class 12.

Precautionary Measures:Authorities emphasize that closures are preventive, aiming to protect students from cold-related illnesses. Parents and students are urged to stay updated via official notifications, as reopening dates may change depending on evolving weather conditions.

The widespread school closures highlight the growing impact of extreme winter weather on daily life and public infrastructure. While academic routines are affected, safeguarding students remains the top priority. With forecasts predicting continued cold conditions, vigilance, preparation, and flexibility remain essential for parents, educators, and students.