Uttar Pradesh is reeling under a severe cold wave as biting winds and thick fog blanket the state, pushing temperatures down and disrupting daily life.
Visibility has plummeted in many areas, forcing authorities to take urgent steps to protect residents, especially children and travelers.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded alerts for dense to very dense fog across large parts of Uttar Pradesh over the coming days, with no quick relief in sight from the chilling conditions.
Government Issues Warning to All Districts
Relief Commissioner officials have directed district magistrates and superintendents of police in all 75 districts to spread weather alerts widely. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary outings and drive cautiously on fog-covered roads. The advisory highlights risks from low visibility, which could drop sharply, making travel hazardous.
Senior meteorologist from the Regional Meteorological Centre in Lucknow, Atul Kumar Singh, explained that an anti-cyclone over western and central India, combined with upper air circulation, is causing persistent fog. “Daytime visibility has remained poor in several districts, and similar weather is expected till around December 20-21,” he said.
Uttar Pradesh Cold Wave: Schools Shut and Timings Changed
In view of the intense cold and poor visibility, the Bareilly district administration has ordered closure of schools up to Class 8 from December 18 to 20. This applies to all government, aided, and private institutions, prioritizing the safety of young students who are more vulnerable to the harsh weather.
In Lucknow and several other areas, school timings have been adjusted, with classes now starting no earlier than 9 am for students up to Class 12. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and more districts may follow suit if conditions worsen.
Impact on Travel: Flights and Trains Hit Hard
Fog has severely affected air and rail services in the state. At major airports like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and others, multiple flights have faced delays, cancellations, or diversions due to low visibility.
On roads and railways, dozens of trains are running hours behind schedule, leaving passengers stranded in the cold. Commuters on highways are also facing slow traffic as vehicles crawl through the haze.
Coldest Spots and Temperature Drop
Kanpur recorded one of the lowest minimum temperatures recently, dipping to around 6 degrees Celsius, while Bareilly broke long-standing cold records in some observations. Eastern and western parts of the state are bearing the brunt, with cold northerly winds adding to the chill.
IMD forecasts indicate that dense fog will continue in many districts, particularly during early mornings and nights, till at least December 21.
Stay tuned for the latest weather updates and follow official advisories to ensure safety during this prolonged cold spell in Uttar Pradesh.