Storm Eowyn: All Stirling schools to close on Friday ahead of 90mph winds
Stirling Council has confirmed that schools and nurseries are set to close their doors on Friday as Storm Eowyn batters Scotland, bringing a threat to life.
All of Stirling's schools and nurseries are set to close their doors tomorrow as locals are warned over the approach of Storm Eowyn.
The move follows the Met Office issuing a rare 'red alert' warning for the period between 10am and 5pm tomorrow - covering the Forth Valley as well as several parts of the country.
Wind gusts in some areas of the region are forecast to be between 80 and 90mph with potential of up to 100mph in some exposed areas.
The red warning covers areas including Drymen, Balmaha, Strathblane, Killearn, Croftamie, Buchlyvie, Balfron, Fintry, Carron Valley, Stirling City, Bannockburn, Plean, Fallin and Cowie.
There are concerns the gusting winds could cause flying debris, resulting in dangerous driving conditions for anyone on the roads, with people urged to stay indoors during the worst of the storm.
The status of schools in the region was eagerly sought as several councils confirmed their sites would close.
And a message from Stirling MSP Evelyn Tweed on social media confirmed the move, with the schools and nurseries set to re-open on Monday.
Ms Tweed said: "All schools and nurseries across Stirling will be CLOSED tomorrow due to the weather forecast.
Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.
"They will reopen as normal on Monday 27th January.
Forth Valley College also confirmed on its website that it would be closing all of its campuses - including in Stirling - due to the conditions.
In the statement, FVC said: "Learning and teaching will be moved online where possible, and staff will contact students directly in regards to alternative arrangements.
"This will also apply to any exams scheduled to take place.
"Work placements will also be cancelled and placement providers will be contacted by a member of the college team.
"Please note that no students will be disadvantaged in regards to their bursary, childcare or EMA funding as a consequence of the campus closure.
"College management will continue to review the weather conditions, and any further updates will be issued via email, the college website and app, and our social media platforms."
A wider amber weather warning for wind has been issued for 6am to 9pm on Friday.
This covers large parts of the Stirling area south of Callander and wind gusts are expected to reach between 60 and 70 miles per hour widely with 70-80mph in some areas and 80-90mph winds on hills and exposed areas.
A wider Yellow Weather Warning for wind covers the entire Stirling area from midnight on Friday through to 3pm on Saturday.
An additional Yellow Weather Warning for snow covers the entire Stirling area from 3am to 12pm on Friday.
Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.