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Storm Amy: Amber wind warning forces early school closures across Northern Ireland

  • Writer: Love Ballymena
    Love Ballymena
  • Oct 3
  • 2 min read
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An emergency early closure of schools has been ordered across parts of Northern Ireland today (Friday 3 October) as Storm Amy brings the threat of damaging winds of up to 80mph.


The Education Authority (EA) confirmed that all schools in Counties Antrim, Londonderry, Tyrone and Fermanagh must close at 12 midday.


The decision was taken “in the interests of the safety of children, young people and staff”.



The closure order follows the Met Office’s Amber warning for wind, which is in force from 15:00 to 20:00 on Friday.


Why schools are closing


The EA said it had consulted with the Met Office to ensure there had been no overnight changes to the Amber alert, which warns of:


  • Damaging winds of 60–70 mph inland and up to 80 mph along exposed coasts.

  • The potential for power cuts and building damage, with a risk of injuries from flying debris.

  • Disruption to transport during the Friday evening commute.


The affected counties represent much of the western half of Northern Ireland.



Weather warnings in place


  • Amber Wind Warning (Fri 3 Oct, 15:00 – 20:00)


    Damaging winds during late afternoon and evening. Disruption expected.


  • Yellow Wind Warning (Fri 3 Oct, 14:00 – Sat 4 Oct, 12:00)


    Strong winds continuing overnight and into Saturday morning.


  • Yellow Rain Warning (Fri 3 Oct, 12:00 – Sat 4 Oct, 06:00)


    Persistent heavy rainfall of 20–40 mm, with 50 mm+ on uplands. Flooding possible.


  • Yellow Rain Warning (Thu 2 Oct, 10:02 – 22:00)


    Heavy rain, 20–40 mm locally, caused disruption on Thursday.



RNLI urges public to stay back from coast


The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued a safety plea ahead of Storm Amy, warning the public not to take risks near stormy seas, piers, cliffs or riversides.


Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, said:


“Storm Amy is set to bring potentially dangerous conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant. If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we advise that you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea or water. A visit during weather conditions such as these is not worth risking your life for.”



The RNLI highlighted its Float to Live advice for anyone who gets into difficulty: lie on your back, keep ears wet, extend arms and legs, and stay calm until you can control your breathing.

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