Ice Causes School Closures, Travel Disruption on Isle of Man
Severe winter weather, including snow and ice, has caused significant disruptions on the Isle of Man. All schools under the Department of Education are closed, with a government announcement stating that University College Isle of Man is also affected. An amber weather warning for ice and wintry showers is active until midday, as residents are cautioned about hazardous travel conditions.
Travel Disruptions
Isle of Man Airport has closed its runway due to icy conditions, leading to delays and cancellations for several flights. The A18 Mountain Road remains shut, following its closure on Sunday due to worsening weather. Travel organizations are advising drivers to adjust their schedules and drive cautiously.
Bus Services Update
Initially, all Bus Vannin services were suspended. However, some bus routes have since resumed operations:
- Services 3 and 5 are running normally.
- Service 21 is operational but does not serve the upper areas of Anagh Coar.
- Services 1, 2, and 11 are running but will terminate at Derby Castle.
Healthcare Services
Despite the weather, medical services at Noble’s Hospital remain available. Patients are encouraged to only attend appointments if it is safe to do so. Those needing essential treatments, such as renal or chemotherapy, should contact the hospital ahead of time if they encounter travel issues.
Impact on Postal Services
The Isle of Man Post Office has suspended all deliveries. The public counters at key locations, including the Northern Delivery Office and Postal Headquarters, are also closed. Citizens are advised to call in advance to check the status of any postal service before visiting.
Closure of Outdoor Facilities
The National Sports Centre has closed its outdoor facilities until further notice. This includes the athletics track, synthetic pitches, The Bowl, and the cycling raceway.
Conclusion
The ongoing winter weather impacts various facets of life on the Isle of Man. Residents are urged to stay informed and exercise caution while traveling in these challenging conditions.
