Heavy snowfall has caused a lot of schools to shut their doors this week (Picture: Getty)

After the Arctic blast of snow and ice led to more than 150 school closures across the south and west of England, Wales and Scotland this week, the continued freezing temperatures mean there could be more today.

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across large parts of the country, while drivers have been warned of treacherous conditions on the roads.

The coldest night of the year was even recorded earlier this week, with and the chilly temperatures set to continue.

One of the biggest impacts bad weather can have is school closures, with parents having to make alternative plans at the last minute.

While everyone loved a snow day at school, closures can interrupt work and force changes in childcare plans.

So how can you find out if you child’s school is closed today?

Is my child’s school closed today?

The kids are happy, but finding last-minute childcare for children on snow days can be a nightmare (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The easiest way to check if schools are open is to look on the local authority’s website.

However, your school’s own website and social media may also be able to give you up-to-the-minute information.

In Scotland, you can search for emergency school closures on the mygov.scot site.

In Northern Ireland, check on the nidirect site.

More: Weather

When is the decision to close schools made?

Who else can remember the joy of hearing the words ‘snow day’ as a kid? (Picture: Getty Images)

The decision on when schools close is usually based on the inside temperature, as well as how hazardous the site is, as lots of snow and ice can pose a risk of injury.

Gov.uk states: ‘Schools must follow the same health and safety law for indoor temperature as other workplaces.’

Currently, there is no legal minimum or maximum in place, though the lowest recommended temperature (for non-physical work) is 16°C.