Heatwave Alert: Schools revise timings, shift to morning classes

Schools across various parts of north and south India have revised timings in view of the ongoing heatwave. Governments and school authorities have issued guidelines prioritising student safety, including ensuring access to clean drinking water and proper classroom ventilation. Many institutions are also reducing or avoiding outdoor assemblies, sports and other activities during the day.

The heatwave has increased the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and sunstroke, especially among younger students. With high temperatures expected to persist, several states have shifted to early morning classes. If needed, more states may adopt similar measures or consider steps such as early summer vacations to safeguard students’ well-being.

Jharkhand school timings for government primary and secondary schools have been revised due to the heatwave. Classes are now held from 7 am to 1 pm. Earlier, schools followed a 9 am to 3 pm schedule.

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Uttar Pradesh: Prayagraj has changed the school hours for classes 1 to 8. Classes will now begin at 7:30 am and will end at 12 noon. The order is effective April 20, across all recognised schools in the district.

Madhya Pradesh: Government and private schools across Satna will now conduct classes between 7:30 am and 12:30 pm. However, teachers have been told to stay till 1:30 pm.

In Chhattisgarh , summer vacations have been advanced, with schools closed from April 20 to June 15. It is nearly two weeks earlier than usual.

Telangana schools have introduced water breaks and safety measures. Open-air classes are restricted, and anganwadi centres will function only till 11 am to avoid peak heat exposure.

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Odisha schools closed

Schools in Khordha district, Odisha, will remain closed from April 20 to April 23 due to the ongoing heat wave. The district administration has ordered all schools and anganwadi centres to shut during this period to keep students safe. The District Collector’s order applies to both government and private schools. However, supplementary exams for Classes 5 and 8 will be conducted from 7 am to 9 am.

Assam schools closed

In other news, Guwahati schools, colleges will remain closed on April 20, 2026, following flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall. The decision applies to both government and private schools, colleges and other institutes. The move is to ensure student safety and prevent accidents amid waterlogging and disrupted civic conditions. Authorities have taken this precautionary step as several parts of the city reported flooding, affecting normal movement and access to campuses.