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How Osnabrück decides to close schools when severe weather strikes

When icy roads and blizzards hit, one German district acts fast—but not without careful planning. Here's how they balance safety and education.

The image shows a yellow building with a clock on the side of it, a door, a window, and a wall. The...
The image shows a yellow building with a clock on the side of it, a door, a window, and a wall. The ground is covered in snow, giving the scene a wintery feel.

School Closures Due to Extreme Weather - How the Decision is Made - How Osnabrück decides to close schools when severe weather strikes

The Osnabrück district in Lower Saxony has repeatedly cancelled school classes this year due to heavy snow and icy roads. Decisions to close schools follow a detailed process involving local authorities, emergency services, and transport providers. Each announcement is shared quickly through warning apps like Katwarn to keep families informed.

Before any closure, the city of Osnabrück works closely with police, bus companies, and road maintenance teams. They assess conditions across the entire district, as weather can differ sharply from one area to another. Severe weather warnings and real-time forecasts also play a key role in the final call.

When schools do shut, supervision remains available for students who still need it. For vocational schools, lessons switch to distance learning during closures. However, general education schools do not yet have this option.

Despite searches, no records of winter-related school closures in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, or Lower Saxony over the past five years were found in available data.

The structured approach ensures that school closures in Osnabrück are based on safety and practicality. Families receive updates promptly, and alternative arrangements help minimise disruption. The system remains under review as weather patterns continue to challenge the region.

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