A severe heatwave sweeping across several parts of India has forced state governments to advance school holidays and change classroom timings to protect students from extreme weather conditions. With temperatures crossing 44°C in many cities, education departments are taking precautionary steps to reduce health risks for children.
States including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Odisha, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand have either shortened school hours or declared early summer vacations in selected districts. In many areas, schools have shifted classes to early morning schedules so that students can return home before the afternoon heat becomes dangerous.
Officials said the decision was taken after temperature levels continued rising sharply over the past few days. Authorities are especially concerned about younger students who travel long distances to school and may face dehydration or heat exhaustion during peak afternoon hours.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several regions in north, central and western India are currently experiencing strong heatwave conditions. The department has also issued advisories urging people to avoid stepping outdoors between 12 noon and 4 pm, which is usually the hottest part of the day.
Cities in Rajasthan and parts of central India have recorded temperatures above normal seasonal averages. In some locations, afternoon heat has remained unusually high even after sunset, making it difficult for residents to get relief during night hours as well.
Parents in many districts have welcomed the revised school schedules. They say travelling in school buses or walking home during extreme heat had become unsafe, especially for younger children. Teachers and school management teams have also supported the decision, saying student safety must come first during such weather conditions.
Doctors have also advised families to take extra precautions. Health experts are warning about rising cases of dehydration, fatigue and heat-related illness during the past week. Children and elderly people are considered the most vulnerable during prolonged heatwave situations.
Authorities are encouraging people to drink enough water, wear light cotton clothing and avoid unnecessary travel during afternoon hours. Schools that are still operating have been instructed to ensure drinking water availability and reduce outdoor activities until temperatures improve.
Weather experts expect the heatwave to continue in several regions for the next few days, although some areas may see temporary relief due to changing wind patterns and possible light rain activity. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and may announce additional measures if temperatures remain high.
With peak summer still ahead, safety advisories are likely to remain in place across multiple states to protect students and the general public from extreme heat conditions.