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Local News
06 January 2025

North Wales Schools Shut Down Due To Winter Weather

Icy conditions and snowfall result in school closures across the region

North Wales is feeling the impact of adverse winter weather conditions, leading to the closure of several schools across the region. On January 6, 2023, schools particularly in Wrexham and Flintshire have reported cancellations as icy conditions persist due to recent snowfall. With the Met Office issuing yellow weather warnings for areas like Wrexham, Flintshire, Denbighshire, Conwy, and Gwynedd, local authorities are taking precautionary measures to protect students.

This morning, the Met Office reported conditions with "an icy start in places," predicting "scattered wintry showers arriving from the northwest" interspersed with bursts of sunshine. The maximum temperature today is expected to reach only 5 °C, with chilly conditions enhanced by brisk northwesterly winds. Tonight’s outlook is not much brighter, with warnings for additional wintry showers and the potential for untreated surfaces to become icy. A minimum temperature of -1 °C is anticipated, with forecasted blustery conditions around coastal areas.

So far, the school closures reported as of 7:15 AM include Ysgol Bryn Alyn, located in Wrexham; Ysgol Maes Hyfryd, and Bryn Tirion (Plas Derwen), both situated within Flintshire. The closures have been primarily attributed to safety concerns stemming from treacherous ice and snow on the roads and pavements.

According to Flintshire County Council, both Ysgol Maes Hyfryd, which caters to special education needs, and Bryn Tirion, designated as a Pupil Referral Unit, are shut due to the hazardous conditions. This pattern isn't unique to Flintshire, as other areas like Wrexham are also impacted. Wrexham’s Ysgol Bryn Alyn secondary school has closed, citing "complications as a result of inclement weather." Meanwhile, Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey have reported no school closures to date.

Despite some institutions needing to shutter their doors, fluctuated weather conditions lead to talk about how teachers, parents, and students are responding. Many families have been urged to stay updated through local authority websites, ensuring they are aware of the latest announcements and any potential changes as the weather situation evolves.

With the foreboding weather forecast and the current closures, parents are advised to exercise caution—both for travel and during playtime for children outside. The local authorities have emphasized safety first, making sure to monitor road conditions closely.

Residents are reminded of the Met Office's advice to stay clear of untreated roads and pavements where possible, as they remain the most affected by ice and snow accumulation. With temperatures expected to drop overnight leading to stiffly cold mornings, every step taken for safety is significant.

While some areas, including Powys and Merthyr Tydfil, report no closures due to weather, the situation remains fluid. Schools are making decisions based on the forecast's daily updates, making it imperative for families to keep informed.

The hope is for conditions to improve as we move through January, but for today, North Wales faces the reality of winter weather’s grip—impacting education and community routines, all emphasizing the need for vigilance and patience as the region tackles changeable conditions.