Hundreds of schools across the United Kingdom will remain shut on Tuesday, as a severe winter weather front dubbed a 'snow bomb' continues to cause widespread disruption. Councils in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have confirmed the extended closures following a day of heavy snowfall and treacherous ice that also severely impacted travel networks.
Nationwide Disruption and Extended Warnings
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across large swathes of the country, with more widespread snow forecast later in the week. Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Matthew Lehnert, warned that the UK faces a continuation of winter hazards. "The UK will continue to experience a range of winter weather hazards through this week," he stated, highlighting "low temperatures as well as snow showers and the risk of ice for many."
He urged the public to stay informed, noting that severe weather warnings are likely to be updated. Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Mike Silverstone, provided insight into an approaching low-pressure system due later in the week. "The most likely scenario at this stage is for low pressure to track near the south coast," he explained. This could bring heavy rain and strong winds to the south, with potential for accumulating snow to the north where it meets colder air.
Confirmed School Closures Across Councils
Aberdeenshire Council has announced that all its schools and council-run nurseries will stay closed on Tuesday. The authority said the decision was based on "a range of factors impacting on our schools’ ability to open safely." A decision regarding reopening on Wednesday will be made on Tuesday.
In the island communities, the situation remains severe. Orkney Islands Council confirmed the closure of all schools and nurseries on Tuesday. Similarly, Shetland Islands Council reported that lying snow continues to affect travel in several areas, after heavy snowfall forced school closures on Monday. The University of Highlands and Islands campus in Kirkwall, Orkney, will also remain closed until further notice.
Public Advice for the Cold Snap
Charities and officials are urging caution, particularly for vulnerable residents. Adam Stachura, Policy Director at Age Scotland, offered practical advice for older people during the freeze. He recommended ensuring adequate supplies of food and medication to avoid risky trips, and highlighted the importance of staying warm indoors through layered clothing, warm drinks, and regular movement.
Stachura also called for community spirit, suggesting: "If you are out clearing paths and your drive of snow and ice, please think about also doing so for your older neighbours to help make it easier for them to leave the house if they need to. That act of kindness will go a long way."
With the Met Office warnings remaining in place and further uncertain weather on the horizon, residents are advised to check their local council websites for the latest updates on school closures and travel before making any essential journeys.
