31 October 2023
As the impending Storm Ciaran is set to hit the Channel Islands on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, we urge all Islanders to stay at home and make essential travel only during that time.
Please prioritise your safety and stay at home. Work from home where possible to reduce the risk for those providing essential services who do need to travel (for example emergency services, utilities, infrastructure and health).
For safety, residents should avoid coastal areas due to the expected storm surges, high winds, very large swells and debris.
Forecast
The latest forecast predicts high tides on Wednesday evening, with a south-southeast Force 9 wind and gusts reaching up to 70mph.
The storm is expected to shift to the southwest from 3am, and by 5am on Thursday morning, we anticipate a west-southwest storm with Force 10 winds, potentially gusting to 85mph and potentially reaching up to 95mph.
Road closures
Given these severe weather conditions, coastal routes, including Victoria Avenue and Havre des Pas, are expected to close from 5:30pm onwards on Wednesday evening, and ask Islanders to take this into account.
All vehicles parked in lay-bys 1-4 on Victoria Avenue must be removed by 5:30pm tomorrow evening, as the car parks will be closed and there will be no access allowed after this time. In addition, it is advised that Islanders do not park in any coastal car parks due to the expected storm surges, swells and debris.
We are working to ensure that road closures and other disruptions are managed effectively, and that access for emergency services vehicles remains a priority. Information regarding road closures will be shared as it becomes available.
Ports and Airports
Ports of Jersey officials have been meeting to discuss preparations for the storm forecast to reach the Channel Islands tomorrow.
Due to the severe weather warning, in collaboration with its airline partners, airport authorities have decided to close the airport to commercial operations all day on Thursday. The airport will remain open for emergency and medical flights, and will reopen on Friday after a visual inspection of the airport infrastructure.
Passenger and freight ferry services are severely disrupted and Jersey Coastguard is advising Islanders to keep away from coastal areas, as there is a risk people could be swept out to sea from piers and seawalls.
Boat owners are being reminded to secure their vessels appropriately, and harbour businesses are advised to check their properties and secure their equipment. Elizabeth Terminal will be closed to the public on Thursday, and the storm gate in Elizabeth Marina will close today.
Safety
Residents, particularly those in coastal areas, are encouraged to prepare their properties for the storm. This includes securing loose items, ensuring drains and gutters are clear, and making necessary repairs to any areas that could be damaged by high winds.
Construction site operators are requested to secure their sites, building materials and scaffolding in order to prevent damage and flying debris.
The Emergency Services are expecting to be very busy. Please only call for emergencies, and avoid putting yourself and others at unnecessary risk in order to reduce demand as much as reasonably possible.
Islanders are urged not to stockpile goods and to be mindful of ensuring that stores are able to provide for all immediate needs.
We urge everyone to follow the latest updates and advice, please take all necessary precautions and stay safe during Storm Ciaran.
gov.je