Schools closed across Wales due to snow and ice

Dozens of schools are closed this morning after much of Wales was hit by snow and ice overnight.

Pupils have been told to stay home in Denbighshire, Conwy, Flintshire, Powys and Gwynedd

Transport for Wales said some rail lines in the country are closed because of track damage following a period of “heavy wind, rain and snow”.Buses are replacing trains between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog until at least Monday.

A yellow warning for snow and ice affecting much of Wales has been issued until 11am. And a yellow ice warning has been issued for south-east Wales until 10.30am.

A further warning has been issued for much of Wales across Thursday evening into Friday morning.

As icy conditions persist, motorists are being urged to stick to major roads that are most likely to have been gritted.

Car insurer RAC said it has seen the highest levels of demand across the UK for rescues in a three-day period since December 2022.

"Cold conditions will last until at least the weekend, so we urge drivers to remain vigilant of the risks posed by ice and, in some locations, snow," said RAC breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson. "Black ice on rural roads can be impossible to spot, leaving very little time to react if driving at speed. Sticking to major roads that are most likely to have been gritted is strongly recommended."