Schools close and move to online learning in Wrexham tomorrow due to Storm Eunice

Schools in Wrexham will move to online learning tomorrow as a precautionary measure against Storm Eunice.

The storm is set to hit much of the UK – including Wales – tomorrow morning, with powerful winds forecast.

The decision to move to online learning has been taken following advice from the North Wales Strategic Command Group, which includes councils, emergency services and other organisations from across the region.

Schools are busy informing parents.

Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “As always, public safety is our absolute priority during any adverse weather event, and we don’t want children and parents to be put at risk from high winds and flying debris while trying to get to and from school.

“As a result, and on the advice of the Strategic Command Group, we’re moving to online learning tomorrow so children can continue to learn in the safety of their homes.

“This is the right thing to do I fully support the approach being taken. When it comes to severe weather forecasts like Storm Eunice, we have to be cautious and do everything we can to help keep people safe.”

Councillor Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, says: “I would ask parents to bear with us and hope everyone understands our reasons for this approach.

“Schools are well-versed in providing online learning, so children will be able to continue with their education without having to risk travelling out in the bad weather.

“There is always the possibility that power outages could impact on home learning, but hopefully this won’t happen.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to our schools for responding so quickly and professionally to the situation, and although we’re planning for the worst, let’s hope for the best and keep our fingers crossed that Wrexham can escape the worst of the storm.”

Wrexham Council have issued a reminder on how to report issues:

While we’re hoping Wrexham avoids the worst of the weather, you can report any issues (e.g. storm damage, fallen trees etc) to the council on the following numbers:

• Office hours (8.30am-5pm) 01978 298989
• Out of hours 01978 292055
• Housing repairs for council tenants (24hrs) 01978 298993
• Any issues with power-outages can be reported by calling 105 (Powercut 105 is a free service that will put you through to your local network operator for help and support).

Remember that if there’s an immediate threat to life during any adverse weather event, you should always call 999.

 

Original information below…

All schools in Wrexham are set to close tomorrow due to Storm Eunice.

An amber weather warning is in place across Wales and large parts of England tomorrow, with gusts of more than 60mph expected locally.

The Met Office has said this morning the alert will be active from 5am through 9pm on Friday.

The Strategic Regional Command Group has made the recommendation that all educational establishments in North Wales should close tomorrow, something we are told Wrexham is communicating to schools this afternoon, and all councillors have been told earlier today.

A council statement is expected shortly.

More soon.