Storm Ciarán: Southampton schools to shut amid 'risk to life' warning

Schools across Southampton have started contacting parents confirming they will close due to Storm Ciarán

Storm Ciarán has been declared a major incident in Hampshire, with fears of a "potential risk to life".

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Resilience Forum made the decision with winds of up to 80mph (128km/h) expected across the two counties.

Schools across the south are announcing they will close on Thursday and not reopen until Friday.

Previously, the council also announced the Itchen Bridge in Southampton would be closed from 19:00 GMT.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Resilience Forum declared the storm would be a major incident from 00:00 on Thursday.

An amber warning of wind has been issued for south-west England from 03:00 to 11:00 GMT on Thursday, and for east and south-east England from 06:00 to 17:00 on Thursday

Meanwhile, Isle of Wight Council is setting up information hubs for islanders who have been affected by the weather and flooding.

In an email to residents, Southampton City Council said there was "a risk of damage to buildings and falling trees, leading to a potential risk to life".

Contacting parents, Springhill Catholic Primary School in the city said the "incoming storm has been declared a major incident and all schools are to close".

Shirley Infant School said it was closing, with all after-school clubs cancelled and the school expected to reopen on Friday.

A Southampton City Council spokesperson said: "In anticipation of the severe weather expected as a result of Storm Ciarán, we are advising schools in the city to close in order to ensure the safety of staff, pupils and parents. However, some schools may decide to remain open."

They added there would be a full list of school closures published on the authority's website.

New Forest District Council has advised residents to avoid coastal areas

The Met Office has warned of travel disruption, damage to buildings and flying debris when Storm Ciarán hits.

Hampshire County Council has also released a list of schools in Fareham and the Test Valley that are expected to close on Thursday.

Cowes Enterprise College on the Isle of Wight has also confirmed it will be closing for the day.

Meanwhile, an email from New Forest District Council to residents said: "As coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to strong winds, heavy waves and potential flooding, the council is advising people to avoid coastal areas."

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