Cold wave intensifies in Bihar, schools closed, transport disrupted.
Photo Credit: The Suncity News.

Patna, December 22, 2025: The Meteorological Department has issued a cold wave warning for Patna and other districts, with dense fog expected during the morning hours.
While the fog may partially dissipate as the day progresses, cloudy conditions are likely to persist.
On Monday morning, moderate fog covered the capital.
During this period, the maximum temperature rose slightly by 0.2 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature dropped by 0.3 degrees Celsius.
The maximum and minimum temperatures, respectively, were recorded at 19 degrees and 9 degrees Celsius on Monday.
According to the Met department, cold waves may prevail at isolated places in western and central Bihar on Monday.
Light to moderate fog is expected across most districts, accompanied by cloudy skies.
On Tuesday, dense fog is likely at one or two locations in northern and southwestern districts, while light to moderate fog may continue elsewhere.
No significant change in temperatures is expected over the next two days.
The department has also forecast dry weather across the state for the next six days.
Severe impacts on transport due to the cold wave have severely disrupted rail and air services.
Several long-distance trains passing through Patna are running 10 to 20 hours late, causing major inconvenience to passengers.
Due to poor visibility, five flights to and from Patna airport were cancelled, while several other flights operated with delays.
Passengers have been advised to remain cautious and check updates before travelling.
Schools closed across several districts due to the cold wave:
Due to the severe cold wave and falling temperatures, district administrations in Siwan, Bhojpur, Sitamarhi, Araria, and Gopalganj have ordered the closure of all government and private schools until December 24.
In Gopalganj district, the administration has suspended academic activities in all government and private schools, pre-schools, and Anganwadi centres from December 22 to December 24, citing Children’s health and safety amid the extreme cold wave and dense fog.
Partial exemptions have been granted for class 9 and above. These classes will be conducted only between 10.00 am to 4.30 pm.

Pre-board exams, board exams, and related special classes are fully exempted and will continue as scheduled.
The order was issued by Additional District Magistrate Nishant Kumar Vivek, who stated that the decision was taken as a precautionary measure due to the increased risk of illness among children during early morning and evening hours.
In Sheohar, where the cold wave has persisted for over a week, District Magistrate Pratibha Rani ordered the closure of all government and private schools up to Class 8 until December 23.
Teachers, however, have been directed to attend school regularly.
In Muzaffarpur, instead of complete closure, school timings have been revised in both government and private schools will now be conducted only between 10.00 am to 3.30 pm.
Advisory for residents:
The administrations of affected districts have appealed to parents to ensure children wear adequate warm clothing and to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement.

Authorities have also indicated that further decisions may be taken if the cold wave continues.
Also Read: Severe cold and dense fog grip Bihar, IMD issues alert for 27 districts.
EOM.