As severe winter weather continues, a comprehensive list of school closures for Friday across England, Scotland, and Wales has been released. The closures come in response to several days of heavy snowfall, ice, and sub-zero temperatures, primarily affecting northern regions and causing widespread travel disruption.
The Met Office has issued multiple weather warnings, including yellow alerts for wind, snow, and rain across parts of England and Wales. A significant red severe weather warning for exceptionally strong winds is in effect for the Isles of Scilly and much of Cornwall. Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong warns that Storm Goretti will produce gusts exceeding 100 mph for several hours before dying down.
Snowfall will also impact Wales, the Midlands, and northern England overnight and into Friday morning. It is expected to bring 10-15 centimeters of accumulation widely, with some higher areas in Wales and the Peak District possibly seeing 20-30 centimeters. An amber warning covering these regions highlights the high risk of disruption.
READ MORE: Council Approves Conversion of Town Centre Hotel into Homeless Accommodation
READ MORE: England Braces for Snowfall Across 29 Counties on Friday
Local authorities advise residents within the warning areas to stay informed and heed official advice as this complex multi-hazard event unfolds.
Over 250 schools are closed on Friday, including more than 150 in Aberdeenshire, dozens in the Highlands and Aberdeen, and numerous schools in Moray. Many students have already experienced an extended start to their term, with remote learning options often put in place.
In northern Scotland alone, 278 schools closed on Thursday, representing approximately 11% of the school estate, though this number is slightly down from 440 closures on Wednesday.
Among the impacted schools in England and Wales are:
- Aston University Engineering Academy & Sixth Form, Birmingham
- Harry Queen Alexandra College, Birmingham
- Fortis Academy and Sixth Form, Birmingham
- Multiple primary and secondary schools across the Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sedgley, and Halesowen areas
- Darland High School, Wrexham
- All sites of Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn, Denbighshire
- Brynmawr Foundation in Blaenau Gwent (closed until January 10; reason unspecified)
- Porthcawl Comprehensive, Bridgend
- Numerous primary and secondary schools across Mid Wales including Brecon High School, Ysgol Bro Caereinion campuses, Ysgol Calon Cymru campuses, and many others.
This ongoing severe weather underscores the need for continued caution throughout the affected regions as winter conditions persist.