Red weather warning forces schools closure in Northern Ireland as Storm Éowyn threatens ‘very dangerous conditions’

All schools in Northern Ireland have been advised to close on Friday following a rare red weather warning.

The Department of Education (DE) has issued the advice to all schools after the Met Office warned of “very dangerous conditions” and “widespread disruption”.

The red alert warning will be in effect across the north from 7am on Friday until 2pm.

In a statement, Stormont education minister Paul Givan said: “A red weather warning has been issued for Storm Éowyn and the Education Authority has advised that all schools should close tomorrow.

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“I understand this will impact on the work of schools and indeed on other businesses and services, but the decision has been taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and young people as well as staff.

“Schools should put plans in place today for remote learning so that pupils can study at home.”