Hundreds of school closures recorded across the UK as snow warnings escalate: What areas are affected?
Heavy snow forces widespread school closures across the UK. Image Source: BBC
Hundreds of schools across the United Kingdom and Ireland have been forced to shut their doors as severe winter weather tightens its grip, bringing heavy snowfall, icy roads, and major transport disruption. Amber and yellow weather warnings issued by the Met Office remain in force, with officials warning that conditions could worsen in the coming days.
The sudden closures have disrupted the return to school for thousands of pupils following the festive break, while parents, teachers, and local authorities scramble to adjust to rapidly changing conditions.
Which Areas Are Affected by the School Closures?
The worst disruption has been recorded in Scotland, where schools in Shetland, Orkney, the Western Isles, Aberdeenshire, and Moray have closed due to unsafe travel conditions. Snow depths of up to 14cm have already been reported in parts of Aberdeenshire, with forecasts suggesting an additional 10–30cm could accumulate, particularly on higher ground.
Elsewhere, yellow warnings for snow and ice stretch across large parts of England and Wales, including coastal regions and rural communities vulnerable to freezing temperatures and icy roads.
In Ireland, Met Éireann has issued yellow weather warnings nationwide, cautioning against treacherous travel conditions as snow and ice spread across all counties.
Travel Disruption Worsens as Snow Intensifies
Transport networks across the UK have been severely impacted. Network Rail Scotland warned that heavy and drifting snow may prevent trains from running on key routes until at least midday, including:
- Aberdeen–Dundee
- Aberdeen–Inverness
- Inverness–Wick/Thurso
- Inverness–Kyle of Lochalsh
Air travel has also been hit. Loganair cancelled multiple flights from Aberdeen and Inverness, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport temporarily closed its runway due to unsafe conditions, leading to delays and cancellations.
READ ALSO
Is a historic winter storm about to bury the U.S. in snow? Maps show up to 24 inches coming
Health Warnings Issued as Cold Snap Deepens
Beyond travel and education, public health officials have raised concerns. The UK Health Security Agency issued amber cold weather alerts for all regions in England, warning that prolonged exposure to low temperatures could increase health risks, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable.
Authorities have urged residents to limit unnecessary travel, check on neighbours, and ensure homes are adequately heated.
Government and Emergency Services Respond
Scotland’s transport secretary, Fiona Hyslop, acknowledged the challenges, urging caution as the country returns to work and school routines.
Emergency services, gritter drivers, police officers, and transport workers continue operating in difficult conditions to keep essential routes open, while local councils assess whether further school closures may be necessary if conditions deteriorate.
When Will Schools Reopen?
Local authorities are expected to review conditions daily, with reopening decisions dependent on snowfall levels, road safety, and transport availability. Parents are advised to monitor council websites, school social channels, and local weather updates for the latest announcements.
FAQ
Why are schools closing across the UK?
Schools are closing due to heavy snowfall, icy roads, and unsafe travel conditions caused by severe winter weather and active Met Office warnings.
Which UK regions are most affected by school closures?
Scotland is the hardest hit, particularly Shetland, Orkney, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and the Western Isles, though parts of England, Wales, and Ireland are also affected.
Are more school closures expected?
Yes. Authorities warn that additional closures are possible if snowfall continues and travel conditions worsen.
How much snow is forecast in affected areas?
Some regions have already recorded up to 14cm, with forecasts predicting up to 30cm on higher ground.
Are flights and trains being cancelled due to the snow?
Yes. Multiple flights have been cancelled, and several rail routes across Scotland are suspended or delayed due to drifting snow.
When will schools reopen after the snow closures?
Reopening decisions are made daily by local councils and depend on road safety, weather forecasts, and transport availability.
What should parents do during school closures?
Parents should follow official school communications, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure children remain safe indoors during severe weather.
