Key Highlights
- More than 30 schools across Wales were closed on Monday due to snow and ice weather warnings.
- The Met Office issued a yellow warning for up to 10cm of snow in parts of Pembrokeshire, Camarthenshire, Ceredigion, and the Preseli Mountains.
- North Wales Police advised against travel in some areas due to hazardous road conditions on the A55.
- Gwynfor Coaches suspended services due to unsafe rural roads.
Snow and Ice Weather Warnings Prompt School Closures Across Wales
More than 30 schools across Wales were forced to close their doors on Monday as a result of severe snow and ice weather warnings. The situation is reminiscent of the first day back after the two-week Christmas break, with cold temperatures creating hazardous conditions for students and teachers alike.
Impact on Education
The closures affected schools in various counties including Gwynedd, Anglesey, Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend county, Caerphilly, and Pembrokeshire. As of Sunday evening, the education sector was grappling with severe weather that had persisted for several days, leading to a disruption in the academic calendar.
Travel Disruptions
To add to the challenges faced by the educational community, North Wales Police issued a warning on Sunday evening, advising against travel in certain areas due to conditions affecting the A55 road. This particular stretch of road runs through Gwynedd and Anglesey and has been identified as particularly dangerous.
Local bus services were also impacted, with Gwynfor Coaches suspending some of their routes. A statement from the company cited rural roads being “completely unsafe” for travel during this period of severe weather.
Meteorological Forecast
The Meteorological Office (Met Office) has issued a yellow warning for snow and ice, affecting most parts of Wales until 11:00 GMT on Tuesday. The warning includes the possibility of up to 10cm (3.9in) of snow in areas like Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Gwynedd, Pembrokeshire, and Powys.
Specifically, the Met Office highlighted that the Preseli Mountains could see significant snowfall, adding to the already challenging conditions faced by residents and commuters. The warning has prompted authorities to advise caution and to prepare for potential disruptions in services and infrastructure.
Community Support
In light of these weather-related challenges, North Wales Police emphasized the importance of considering personal safety before venturing out. Chief Inspector Emma Parry stated: “We’d ask everyone to please consider the weather conditions before venturing out, and stay away from mountainous or higher areas particularly affected.” She added that authorities were working closely with partners to support local communities.
“If you are travelling, please check your routes and the weather along the way and at your end destination,” Parry continued. “Please be reassured that we are here to support our communities during these challenging times.”
The snowfall has not only affected daily commuting but also disrupted recreational activities and routine life in rural areas. However, some residents have taken the opportunity to enjoy winter sports and picturesque views as the sun rose over the Welsh landscape.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, efforts are underway to ensure minimal disruption to essential services and public safety. As the snow continues to fall, local authorities remain vigilant, working alongside community members to navigate these challenging times.
