Northumberland and County Durham Schools Closed And Travel Chaos Due to Blizzard Conditions– Full List Inside

Published on November 20, 2025

A Met Office amber weather warning for snow and ice has led to multiple school closures across Northumberland and County Durham this morning, as blizzard conditions continue to impact the region. The weather warning, which was issued to advise of continued wintry showers, has caused significant disruptions to travel, including school transport routes.

On Thursday, November 20, 2025, several schools in the North East of England were forced to shut their doors for the day due to the adverse weather conditions. This includes primary schools and secondary schools in both urban and rural areas, where snow and icy conditions made it unsafe for students and staff to travel. The decision has raised concerns about the ongoing impact on education schedules, with most schools expected to reopen as normal on Friday, November 21.

The disruption also affected school bus services, with routes to various schools being either delayed or cancelled due to snow and icy conditions. For many parents and guardians, this meant scrambling to make alternative arrangements for childcare or transport.

The Weather Forecast and Impact on Travel

According to the Met Office, the cold and breezy weather will continue throughout Thursday with wintry showers expected to spread inland. In addition to the snow, sleet and freezing rain could add to the risk of travel disruptions. For today, the maximum temperature is expected to be 3°C, which is well below average for the time of year, further complicating road conditions.

Local authorities have urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on smaller and rural roads that are harder to clear during heavy snow. The snow, combined with gusty winds, increases the risk of blizzards, which have the potential to make driving conditions extremely hazardous.

Transport services have also been impacted, with rail networks and bus services in the region experiencing delays. Train operators have advised passengers to check services before departure, as speed restrictions may be put in place, further increasing journey times.

Schools Affected by the Weather

Several schools across the North East have been forced to close today due to the heavy snowfall and unsafe travel conditions. Here is a list of the schools that were closed:

• Shotton Primary School – Closed due to health and safety concerns from icy conditions.
• Broomhill Primary School – Severe weather preventing staff from traveling safely.
• Longhoughton C of E Primary School – Closed due to ongoing adverse weather.
• Seahouses Primary School – Closed due to road conditions making it unsafe for staff and pupils.
• Swarland Primary School – Adverse weather leading to the closure.
• Barndale House School – Both sites closed due to unsafe roads.
• The Duchess’s Community High School – Closed because of unsafe transport routes.
• Ellingham C of E Voluntary Aided Primary School – Due to weather conditions preventing staff from traveling.
• St Paul’s RC Voluntary Aided Primary School – Closed due to snow and unsafe conditions for staff.

While these closures may disrupt students’ learning for the day, most schools are expected to reopen as normal on Friday, provided the weather conditions improve overnight.

Travel and Safety Tips for Those Affected

For residents, business travelers, and tourists in the North East, here are some practical tips for navigating the snow and ice:

1. Stay Updated on Travel Alerts:
   Always check the Met Office website and local authorities for updates on weather conditions and school closures. Also, check with transport providers for delays or cancellations.
2. Avoid Unnecessary Travel:
   If you’re planning to drive, only use main roads that are more likely to be treated and cleared of snow. If possible, postpone your trip or opt for public transport, but ensure it’s running as expected.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle:
   If you must travel by car, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow chains, antifreeze, and a fully charged phone. Carry an emergency kit, including water, snacks, and blankets.
4. Be Careful on Foot:
   Walk cautiously on icy sidewalks and streets. Wear appropriate footwear with good grip and be aware of any slippery spots as you walk around town or travel between transport connections.
5. Plan Extra Time for Your Journey:
   Even if your destination isn’t affected by closures, allow extra travel time to ensure you reach your destination safely. With conditions worsening, delays are likely to occur.
6. Check Accommodation Availability:
   If you’re a tourist in the area, check the status of your hotel or accommodation before departure. Booking.com and local accommodation providers often offer updated information on whether services are operating as usual.

Key Points to Remember

• Met Office amber warning for snow and ice in North East England, particularly Northumberland and County Durham.
• Several schools across the region, including Shotton Primary and Barndale House, were forced to close today due to snow and ice.
• Public transport disruptions, including train delays and bus cancellations, are ongoing.
• Safety advice includes avoiding non-essential travel and ensuring vehicles are winter-ready.
• Most schools are expected to reopen on Friday, depending on weather improvements.

Final Thoughts for Travelers

While the snow and ice may cause some inconvenience in the North East, these disruptions are part of the unpredictable nature of winter weather in the UK. For both business travelers and tourists, staying informed, planning ahead, and prioritizing safety are key to managing these challenging conditions. If you’re traveling in the affected areas, make sure to take extra precautions to ensure your journey is as smooth and safe as possible. Winter in the UK can be beautiful, but travelers should always be prepared for the potential disruptions that come with it. Stay updated and stay safe!

Source: chroniclelive.co.uk

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated