EA keeps school closures under review as Storm Chandra brings amber and yellow weather warnings

Schools across Northern Ireland remain open for now as Storm Chandra approaches, with the Education Authority (EA) confirming that there are no current plans to issue general school closure notices, with amber and yellow weather warnings coming into force.

The EA said the potential impacts on schools are being kept under review, as strong winds and the risk of flooding are forecast to affect parts of Northern Ireland tomorrow.

The developing situation has already been discussed at senior level, including engagement with the Department of Education and the Minister.

In an update issued to schools and parents, the EA said:

“Amber and yellow weather warnings are in place for NI tomorrow and the potential impacts on schools are being kept under review.”

At present, the Authority stressed that decisions around closures will be made locally rather than through a region-wide directive, stating:

“The situation has been discussed with the Department and Minister and there are no current plans to issue general school closure notices.”

Local decision-making for school leaders

School leaders have been asked to closely monitor conditions in their own areas and act if circumstances change, reflecting the variable impact Storm Chandra may have across the region.

The EA said:

“School leaders are asked to monitor and assess the weather warnings and conditions in their areas and to take local decisions if required.”

This approach means some schools could still take independent action should conditions deteriorate, particularly in areas more vulnerable to high winds, surface water flooding or coastal impacts.

Transport services may face disruption

While school transport services are expected to operate, the EA warned that journeys may be affected by the storm, particularly where flooding or hazardous road conditions develop.

The Authority said:

“School transport services will operate but may be subject to disruption due to high winds and the risk of flooding.”

In line with advice from the PSNI, transport operators are adjusting routes where necessary, with the EA confirming that:

“In line with PSNI advice, contingency plans are being finalised to avoid coastal roads where possible.”

Advice for parents and families

Parents are being urged to prepare for possible disruption, particularly if school transport is delayed or unable to operate in certain areas. The EA cautioned that some families may need to make alternative arrangements at short notice.

The update stated:

“Parents should be aware of the potential for disruption to school transport tomorrow as, in some cases, they may have to make their own transport arrangements for their children.”

The EA has advised parents to remain alert to updates from individual schools and transport providers as Storm Chandra moves across Northern Ireland, with conditions expected to change rapidly in some locations.