20+ Schools close as temperatures plunge across Norfolk
Schools across Norfolk have been forced to close after snow and freezing temperatures caused widespread disruption, with more than 20 schools affected by the cold snap.
Dangerous road conditions, frozen pipes and heating failures were among the reasons given for the closures, which followed a sharp overnight drop in temperatures across the county. The Met Office recorded a low of -10C in Marham, highlighting the severity of the conditions.
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice remains in force until 11:00 GMT, with further disruption expected in some areas.
Online learning and delayed openings
This is the second consecutive day that schools have been hit by the cold weather. On Monday, several schools in Norfolk and neighbouring Suffolk were also unable to open.
The Bridge Easton School, near Norwich, remains closed for a second day, while Reedham Primary and Nursery School in Norwich has announced it will stay shut until Thursday because of ongoing heating problems.
According to Norfolk County Council, most affected schools are fully closed, although some are offering lessons online or opening later on Tuesday morning.
A full and regularly updated list of school closures is available on the council’s website.
How to check if your school is closed
School closures can be triggered by a range of issues, including severe weather, heating or power failures, infectious disease outbreaks, staff shortages or unsafe site conditions. Weather related disruption remains the most common cause.
Read More: UK weather: Temperatures could fall to -12C as snow showers push south
Parents in Merseyside, Lancashire and Cheshire are also being advised to check with their local authorities for updates, as councils are responsible for publishing closure information or directing schools to inform families directly.
If you are unsure which local authority your child’s school falls under, the government’s school closure checker can be used by entering a postcode. Postcodes can also be found using the Royal Mail postcode finder. This service applies to schools in England and Wales.
With cold conditions expected to continue, parents and carers are being urged to monitor official updates and school communications closely over the coming days.
