School holidays 2025: Cold wave forces closures in UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh, and other states

As the year 2025 comes to an end, a strong cold wave has spread across many parts of North India, according to media reports. Falling temperatures, dense fog, and snowfall have begun to affect normal life, especially for school-going children. In response, several state governments have changed school timings and announced holidays to reduce risks for students.

If you are a student or parent in North India, school routines may not follow the usual pattern right now. According to media reports, administrations are taking precautionary steps as weather conditions continue to worsen in several regions.

Schools closed in Uttar Pradesh until January 1, 2026
Uttar Pradesh has taken strict measures amid the severe cold wave and dense fog affecting the state. The government has ordered all schools to remain closed until January 1, 2026. The directive applies to both government and private schools, as temperatures continue to fall across several districts.

In addition to school closures, the timings of secondary schools have also been revised due to extreme cold conditions. According to media reports, schools will reopen with new timings from December 29. The revised schedule will be from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, replacing the earlier timings of 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. The change aims to reduce student exposure to harsh morning weather.

Media reports further state that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed district administrations to stay alert during the cold wave. During a visit to Gorakhpur on Sunday evening, the Chief Minister personally reviewed arrangements at night shelters. He said the government is sensitive towards the safety of poor people, travellers, and young children during severe winter conditions.

The Chief Minister has instructed all District Magistrates to close schools and declare holidays whenever required due to the cold wave. According to media reports, he also said that if necessary, arrangements should be made for studies through virtual modes to ensure continuity of education while prioritising student safety.

Bihar and Jharkhand announce temporary closures
Bihar and Jharkhand are also facing intense cold conditions. According to media reports, districts such as Patna, Saharsa, and Nalanda have ordered schools to remain closed until December 31. Cold winds and low temperatures have made early travel unsafe for students.

In some districts, schools for higher classes have been allowed to operate with revised schedules. As reported by local media, school timings have been shifted to later hours to help students avoid the harsh morning cold. District administrations are continuing to review weather updates before announcing further steps.

Snowfall disrupts school schedules in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is witnessing heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. According to media reports, road conditions have worsened in several areas, making daily travel risky. In view of this, the state government has announced extended winter holidays for schools until December 31.

Media reports indicate that snow-covered roads and reduced visibility have raised safety concerns for both students and teachers. Education officials stated that the holiday extension aims to prevent accidents during severe winter conditions.

Rajasthan follows scheduled winter holidays
In Rajasthan, winter holidays are already in effect as per the education department’s annual calendar. According to media reports, schools across the state remain closed, including Monday, as part of the planned winter break. No additional emergency closure orders have been issued.

Schools remain open in South and East India
Unlike North India, weather conditions remain normal in South and East India. According to media reports, regular classes are being held in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana on December 29. No state-level holiday announcements have been made in these regions.

Karnataka, West Bengal, and Odisha are also observing normal working days, and schools remain open. Media reports add that some private institutions may be closed due to internal programmes, but there is no official public holiday.

Advisory for parents and students
Authorities have advised parents and students to depend only on official announcements for updates on school holidays and timings. According to media reports, winter conditions in North India can change quickly, and decisions are often announced at short notice to ensure student safety.
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