Severe cold wave hits Uttar Pradesh, Bihar; Patna schools closed till December 26 — Check updates

A severe cold wave has swept across much of north India, sending temperatures into single digits, wrapping cities in thick fog and prompting authorities in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to step in with emergency measures. In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has appealed to people to remain calm and look out for those most exposed to the cold. The India Meteorological Department has warned that cold and foggy conditions are likely to continue over the next few days, with night temperatures expected to drop further in several areas.

UP CM urges compassion as cold wave intensifies

Addressing the situation in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the state government is working with sensitivity and urgency to minimise the impact of the extreme cold. In a message shared on social media, he appealed to citizens to look out for those most at risk, including the homeless, elderly and people working outdoors. “The true test of human values comes at such times,” the Chief Minister said, calling on residents to extend simple acts of help, such as offering warm drinks or guiding people to night shelters.

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Night shelters, blankets and bonfires across the state

Adityanath said night shelters across Uttar Pradesh are operating at full capacity and have been equipped with quilts, blankets, heaters, drinking water and bonfires. Municipal bodies and tehsil administrations have been directed to distribute woollen clothes to the needy and ensure that no one is left exposed to the cold.

Patna shuts schools up to Class eight till December 26

In Bihar, the Patna district administration has suspended academic activities up to Class eight in all government and private schools, including pre-schools and Anganwadi centres, till Friday, December 26, citing risks to children’s health due to persistently low temperatures. District Magistrate Tyagarajan S M said the order has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Classes above Class eight may be held only between 10.00 am and 3.30 pm. However, pre-board and board-related special classes and examinations have been exempted. On Tuesday, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 17 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius.

Bihar shivers as temperatures dip below 10°C

Cold wave-like conditions continued across several districts of Bihar due to dense fog and steady westerly winds. The minimum temperature fell below 10 degrees Celsius in at least six districts, with Rajgir in Nalanda recording the lowest at 6.6 degrees Celsius.

Gaya also saw a sharp drop in temperature, with morning visibility plunging to just 50 metres, disrupting road and rail traffic. The Meteorological Department has warned that minimum temperatures may fall by another two to four degrees Celsius over the next two days, even as daytime temperatures could rise slightly if sunlight improves.

The IMD has forecast dense to moderate fog during morning hours across many parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar for the next two days. Cold day conditions are likely in pockets, especially in early mornings and late evenings.

In Uttar Pradesh, cities like Ayodhya and Moradabad have already reported minimum temperatures around 8 to 9 degrees Celsius, with thick fog affecting visibility and daily life.

Advisory for residents

Health authorities in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have advised people to:

• Wear warm, layered clothing and cover the head and ears.
• Avoid outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours.
• Take special care of children and elderly family members.
• Use heaters and bonfires carefully to prevent accidents.
• Stay updated with official weather and district advisories.