Cold wave grips Lucknow, 'Red Alert' issued | Schools shut for classes 8 and below till Jan 11

Lucknow and nearby districts are now experiencing the peak of winter, with dense fog and freezing conditions taking over. According to the IMD, the city has been witnessing single-digit minimum temperatures since the start of the new year. Today, the maximum temperature is expected to reach 19°C, while the minimum will hover around 8°C.

Adding to the severity, a 'Red Alert' has been issued for the next 48 hours in Lucknow and other districts of Uttar Pradesh due to the cold wave and poor visibility.

In response, the Lucknow District Magistrate has announced the closure of all government and private schools for classes 8 and below until January 11. For classes 9 to 12, schools have been instructed to conduct online classes. Those unable to shift to online learning, are permitted to function between 10 am and 3 pm.

The IMD has further warned of a continuing drop in temperatures in the coming week, indicating harsher conditions ahead. Poor visibility across the state has also disrupted train and flight operations to and from the city, compounding the challenges posed by the cold wave.

City residents are strongly advised to limit outdoor activities to essential needs during this severe weather. Travel on highways is especially discouraged due to the risks posed by reduced visibility and icy conditions.