School Winter Vacation 2026 Extended: UP, Punjab, Rajasthan Schools Closed Due to Severe Cold Wave

Severe cold weather conditions across North India have forced state governments to extend winter vacations in schools, bringing much-needed relief to students and parents. With temperatures dropping sharply and dense fog disrupting daily life, authorities in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan have taken precautionary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

Uttar Pradesh Schools Closed Till 15 January 2026

Uttar Pradesh is currently experiencing one of the harshest winter spells in recent years. In response, the state government has ordered the closure of all schools from nursery to Class 8 until 15 January 2026

. This decision applies to all boards, including CBSE, ICSE, and UP Board schools.

For senior students, classes 9 to 12 will remain closed till 8 January 2026. The administration has clearly warned that any school found violating the order will face strict action under education and disaster management regulations.

Earlier, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had announced the closure of schools and colleges up to intermediate level till 5 January. However, due to worsening cold conditions, the government extended the holidays for younger students. District administrations in cities like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, and Prayagraj

have also issued local advisories based on temperature and fog conditions.

Punjab Extends Winter Holidays Amid Dense Fog

Punjab is also witnessing extreme cold and persistent fog, severely affecting road visibility and daily routines. Considering student safety, the Punjab government has decided to extend winter vacations in schools till 8 January 2026

.

Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated that the decision was taken to protect children from health risks caused by cold waves and low visibility. Initially, schools were expected to reopen earlier, but the extension reflects the seriousness of the weather situation.

Rajasthan and Jaipur Issue Special Orders

Rajasthan is not far behind in battling severe winter conditions. The state government had already ordered school closures till 5 January 2026

. In Jaipur, the district collector has announced additional relief by keeping anganwadi centers and primary schools closed from 2 January to 10 January.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and further extensions may be announced if temperatures continue to drop. Cities like Sikar, Churu, Alwar, and Bikaner are reporting near-freezing conditions during early mornings and nights.

Why Are These Holidays Being Extended?

According to the Meteorological Department, cold wave conditions, icy winds, and dense fog are expected to persist for the next several days. Such weather can lead to respiratory problems, hypothermia, and viral infections in children, especially those commuting early in the morning.

The government’s priority is to minimize health risks while ensuring that education does not suffer in the long term.

Online Classes and Academic Planning

To avoid disruption in studies, many schools are considering online classes and digital learning modules

. Parents are advised to stay connected with their school’s official communication channels, including WhatsApp groups, school websites, and notice boards, for timely updates.

Teachers may share assignments, recorded lectures, and practice worksheets to help students remain academically engaged during the extended break.

Important Advice for Parents

• Ensure children wear warm clothes, caps, and gloves when stepping outside

• Avoid early morning exposure unless necessary

• Provide warm meals and hot fluids at home

• Keep track of official school announcements to avoid confusion

Local administrations may also issue district-wise orders, so parents should stay alert.

What to Expect Next?

If weather conditions improve, schools may reopen as scheduled. However, if cold waves intensify, further extensions are likely. The safety of children remains the top priority for all state governments.

For now, students can enjoy a longer winter break while parents can be assured that authorities are taking responsible steps to protect young lives.