Schools in 11 Murcia municipalities closed due to heavy rains

Classes have been suspended across the northwest, Guadalentín Valley, Lorca and Águilas due to storm warnings

In a move to protect students and reduce mobility during the current dramatic weather conditions, classes in nearly a dozen municipalities in the Region of Murcia have been suspended this Tuesday.

Following a heightened orange alert warning for heavy rainfall and storms, authorities have decided to close schools and other centres in the areas most likely to be affected.

The decision impacts schools in 11 municipalities across the Northeast and the Guadalentín Valley areas, as well as Lorca and Águilas. This includes Caravaca de la Cruz, Calasparra, Cehegín, Moratalla, Bullas, Lorca, Puerto Lumbreras, Águilas, Aledo, Totana and Alhama de Murcia. The aim is to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals by limiting travel and reducing exposure to potential hazards from flooding or high winds.

Officials have encouraged parents and teachers to stay informed on updates by monitoring the Educarm website and their social media feed for any changes in the weather forecast or additional safety measures.

The decision to close schools came after an emergency meeting held at the 112 Emergency Coordination Centre, with attendees including representatives from the Departments of the Presidency, Education, Social Policy and regional mayors. The pre-emptive closure is intended to minimise disruptions and prioritise public safety by preventing unnecessary travel, particularly in areas susceptible to flooding.

Besides schools, this measure extends to nurseries, child development centres and care facilities for the elderly and those with disabilities. Authorities have cautioned the general population to exercise extreme care and avoid crossing flood-prone areas. Officials stated that if the orange alert persists or extends to other regions, school closures may be prolonged accordingly.

In schools that remain open in unaffected areas, staff are advised to prepare for potential teacher shortages due to travel disruptions. Teachers who are unable to reach their workplaces due to road closures will have their absences treated as justified if they can document what impeded their journey.

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