States to close schools tomorrow as Storm Austen set to bring Force 10 winds to Channel Islands
- All States schools in Guernsey to close Friday 23rd October due to Storm Austen
- Red wind warning issued with Force 10 winds forecast between 6am and 11am
- Peak storm conditions coincide with morning commute, raising safety concerns
- Risk of flying debris and falling trees heightened due to dry summer conditions
- Travel disruption expected at harbour and airport, residents urged to check with providers
All States schools in Guernsey will close tomorrow as Storm Austen approaches the Channel Islands, bringing the risk of Force 10 winds during the morning commute.
The Met Office issued a red wind warning this morning ahead of the storm's arrival, which is expected over the islands this evening. The worst conditions are forecast to pass directly over the Channel Islands between 6am and 11am tomorrow morning, Friday 23rd October.
Wind speeds could reach Force 10, with the potential for even stronger gusts. The combination of the wind direction and the very dry summer has heightened the risk of trees being uprooted and falling, alongside the danger of flying debris.
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While Storm Austen is expected to be less severe than Storm Goretti earlier this year, authorities have expressed concern that the peak of the storm will coincide with the morning commute, creating additional hazards for residents.
Guernsey's Emergency Services have advised that roads should be kept as clear as possible to allow them to respond to incidents. This advice led the States of Guernsey to take the decision to close all States schools tomorrow.
Health & Social Care appointments will proceed as scheduled, though staff will contact patients directly if any appointments need to be cancelled due to the weather.
Authorities are urging islanders to take sensible precautions ahead of the storm. Residents should avoid unnecessary outdoor activity overnight and tomorrow morning, and take measures to protect their property by securing items such as outdoor furniture and closing windows. Boat owners are advised to check moorings before the storm arrives.
Motorists who must use the roads have been asked to drive cautiously and remain considerate of others and the prevailing conditions.
Travel disruption is expected at both the harbour and airport. Islanders are advised to check with their travel providers for the latest information on services.
The worst of Storm Austen should have passed by around midday tomorrow, although winds will remain high into the weekend.
The States of Guernsey will continue to monitor the weather situation on Friday and over the weekend, providing updates as the situation progresses. The latest weather information can be found at the Jersey Met website via the Guernsey weather forecast page.
Further information is available at gov.gg/StormAusten.
Q&A
Q: When will Storm Austen hit the Channel Islands?
A: Storm Austen is expected to arrive over the Channel Islands this evening, with the worst conditions forecast between 6am and 11am tomorrow morning, Friday 23rd October.
Q: Why have schools been closed?
A: All States schools have been closed because the peak of Storm Austen coincides with the morning commute, creating additional risks. Emergency services have advised keeping roads as clear as possible to respond to incidents.
Q: What precautions should residents take?
A: Residents should avoid unnecessary outdoor activity overnight and tomorrow morning, secure outdoor furniture, close windows, and boat owners should check moorings. Motorists should drive cautiously if they must use the roads.
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