Advice in case of severe weather

08 February 2021

The Severe Weather Tactical Co-ordination Group (SW TCG) met this afternoon to assess the possibility of snowfall in the coming days.

Based on the weather forecast at 2pm the SW TCG do not anticipate any significant disruption over the next 24 hours to schools, services, bus routes or roads. The group will meet again tomorrow morning, and further updates will be provided at lunchtime for the forthcoming 24-hour period.

However, Islanders are warned that temperatures are expected to fall to zero overnight, and there could be icy patches. Temperatures will remain very cold all day tomorrow and increasing winds will bring significant wind chill. The Jersey Met Office currently has a yellow alert in place for snow and this will be reviewed in the morning. They expect some snow to fall in the Island tomorrow late afternoon / early evening [Tuesday 9 February].

Teams are on alert across the Island to respond to any severe weather.

The SW TCG has issued the following advice, in the event of snow and freezing temperatures:

if attending the COVID Vaccine Centre, please enter via car or on foot through Pier Road car park (rather than Fort Regent Road), or use the Shuttle Bus service
anyone needing help and support, can use the Connect Me service
Please ensure you are appropriately dressed for the conditions, this includes appropriate footwear
if driving in snow and ice – always adjust your driving according to the conditions and plan your journey by checking the latest weather forecast

The authorities are working hard to keep the roads and pavements clear.

During severe weather:

clear ice from windows, lights, number plate, and vehicle roof before you set off
make sure mirrors are clear and windows are thoroughly de-misted
use dipped headlights in poor visibility
keep well back from the motorist in front
be extra cautious at road junctions where road markings may not be visible
be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances
even after roads have been treated, driving conditions may remain challenging, especially if the road location and layout mean there is a high risk of ice
stick to the main roads where you can, but if you cannot avoid driving on a minor road, take extra care
drive with care and respect the road conditions wherever you drive,

Be aware that ice forms more easily on:

hilly or exposed roads
roads shaded by trees or buildings

Useful tips for driving in snow:

accelerate gently, using low revs - you may need to start in second gear to avoid skidding
you may need 10 times the normal gap between your car and the car in front
try not to brake suddenly - it may lock up your wheels and you could skid
be extra cautious at road junctions where road markings may not be visible

If you start to skid:

release the brake pedal fully or ease off the accelerator
steer into the skid
as you straighten, steer back along the road

Pedestrians

Take care when walking on pavements and other non-gritted surfaces which may not be cleared of snow and ice, to minimise the risk of falling. Wear footwear with sufficient grip.

General

Stay tuned into social media, local radio and TV news for all the latest advice.