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Uttar Pradesh Schools Closed Until January 1st Due to Intense Cold Wave

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 1:12 GMT by TheHealthSite

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Uttar Pradesh Schools Shut Down Amidst Intense Cold Wave – CM Yogi Orders Closure Until January 1st

Uttar Pradesh (UP), India’s most populous state, is currently grappling with an intense cold wave that has prompted Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to order the closure of all schools up to Class XII until January 1, 2024. This decision, announced on December 30th, aims to safeguard children from severe weather conditions and prevent potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to frigid temperatures. The move impacts millions of students across the state and reflects a growing concern over the escalating impact of cold waves in northern India.

Severity of the Cold Wave & Regional Disparities

The current cold wave is particularly impacting western Uttar Pradesh, including cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, Meerut, Bareilly, Basti, Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj. Temperatures have plummeted significantly below normal levels for this time of year. Several districts are experiencing "severe" or even "dangerous" cold conditions, with minimum temperatures frequently dipping to 4-6 degrees Celsius (39-43 Fahrenheit) and daytime highs struggling to reach beyond 12-15 degrees Celsius (54-59 Fahrenheit). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange alerts for many districts, signifying a need for public preparedness. The article highlights that the situation is particularly concerning in areas like Kanpur Dehat, where temperatures have plummeted to near freezing levels.

This isn't an isolated incident; northern India as a whole has been experiencing unusually harsh winter conditions this year. Experts attribute these extreme weather patterns to a combination of factors including climate change and La Niña – a climate pattern characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can influence global weather systems. The prolonged cold spell is also impacting agricultural activities and daily life across the region.

Government Response & Safety Measures

Recognizing the potential danger to children, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath swiftly issued orders for school closures. This decision isn't unprecedented; similar measures have been taken in previous years when severe cold waves have hit the state. The closure applies to all government and private schools catering to students from nursery level up to Class XII (equivalent to grades 1-12). The move is a direct response to concerns raised about children’s health and safety during their commutes to school, often early in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest.

Beyond school closures, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented several other measures to mitigate the impact of the cold wave. These include:

• Night Shelters: The government is ensuring that sufficient night shelters (rain baseras) are operational across cities and towns, providing refuge for those experiencing homelessness or lacking adequate heating facilities. These shelters offer basic amenities like blankets and warm food.
• Medical Camps: Medical teams have been deployed to various locations to provide healthcare services and address any cold-related illnesses. These camps focus on preventing conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, and hypothermia.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: The government is running public awareness campaigns through media channels to educate citizens about the dangers of extreme cold and advise them on preventative measures such as wearing warm clothing, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the elements.
• Fire Safety Checks: With increased use of heating appliances like bonfires and kerosene heaters during the cold wave, authorities are also emphasizing fire safety precautions.

Impact & Future Considerations

The school closures will undoubtedly disrupt academic schedules, requiring adjustments in lesson plans and potential make-up classes later on. While this disruption is a temporary inconvenience, it’s considered a necessary precaution to prioritize student well-being. Parents generally support the decision, recognizing the risks associated with sending children out into such extreme weather.

The situation underscores the increasing vulnerability of communities to severe cold waves driven by climate change. Experts emphasize that these events are likely to become more frequent and intense in the future, demanding proactive adaptation strategies. This includes improving infrastructure for winter preparedness, strengthening early warning systems, and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate climate change itself. The government's response highlights a growing awareness of this challenge and a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations. The article notes that while the closure is until January 1st, authorities will continue monitoring weather conditions and may extend it if necessary.

Further Context & Related Information (Drawing from linked articles/general knowledge)

• La Niña: Understanding La Niña's influence helps explain the unusual cold wave. It often brings cooler temperatures to parts of Asia during winter months.
• Climate Change Impact: The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like this cold wave are consistent with projections from climate scientists, emphasizing the need for global action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Previous Instances: Uttar Pradesh has experienced similar school closures in recent years due to severe cold waves, highlighting a recurring pattern that necessitates long-term planning and adaptation measures.

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