STORM CIARAN: Schools to close on Thursday

Tuesday 31 October 2023

With the worst weather in more than 30 years forecast to hit the Bailiwick later this week, it's been confirmed that all States-run schools will close on Thursday.

In advice issued this morning, which was based on latest available forecasts at that time, a spokesperson for the States of Guernsey said that "significant disruption is expected" from Wednesday "with the worst of the storm predicted to hit in the early hours of Thursday".

With the wind currently forecast to reach up to 95mph on Thursday morning the advice today is that people should stay at home if possible and not travel unless essential on that day.

That means that all States-run schools will be closed on Thursday, while advice will be shared with the grant-aided colleges and early years providers, who will then make their own decisions about whether or not to open.

Express has asked the Ladies, Elizabeth and Blanchelande colleges what they intend to do.

The Ladies’ College said: "In line with the closure of all States of Guernsey schools, The Ladies’ College will also close this Thursday due to Storm Ciaran. We are in the process of communicating with parents regarding provision for their children."

Elizabeth College said: "In line with our Severe Weather Procedure Elizabeth College Junior and Upper schools will be closed on Thursday 2 November. If the weather remains as forecast the College will be open on Friday 3 November."

We will update this article when additional information is available from other education providers.

Other information has been shared focused on specific areas as follows: 

Traffic

Guernsey Police will be assessing road safety conditions throughout the week and will regularly issue information on social media providing updates. Advice is likely to focus on road conditions and the impact of the storm, including damage to trees or structures affecting roads.

The Bailiwick Law Enforcement Facebook page can be found HERE.

Road closures

If you need to make an essential journey, check what routes are open at Roadworks Information - States of Guernsey which will have the latest information on road.

Significant impact is likely on coast roads during the storm.

Public & School buses

CT Plus and the various school bus operators will make an independent assessment of road conditions in order to determine whether services can be safely operated.

In the event of significant impact to island roads, a limited public bus service may be operated on certain routes.

Information will be regularly updated on buses.gg.

Businesses

Businesses are advised to review their business continuity plans, prepare for the risk of flooding on the coasts and issue advice for their staff.

Based on the current forecast, States of Guernsey advice is for everyone to remain at home wherever possible during the worst of the storm, including working from home if possible. This advice will be updated should the weather forecast change.

The Emergency Services

The emergency services have put in place arrangements so that they will be able to continue to carry out their duties.

The Civil Protection Team will be supporting during the significant weather and the public are asked to adhere to any direction given.

Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care has its own transport arrangements for staff during severe weather conditions, thereby ensuring that the majority of its services continue to function.

St John Ambulance will assist with transport for essential patients.

Airport

Air travellers are advised to expect disruption to services over the coming days. Passengers are advised to check with their airline in the first instance.

The latest information on arrivals and departures is available HERE.

Harbour 

Significant disruption is expected for shipping services, with Condor Ferries already cancelling or rescheduling various sailings.

Boat owners are advised to ensures their vessels are tightly moored with hatches and covers secured and bilge pumps operating. Anyone who keeps small craft above the spring high water mark on the west coast should make sure it is properly secured or move their vessel to a safe place.

Property 

Residents are advised to make sure their properties are secure, including garden furniture and others outside fixtures. Homeowners are asked to clear drains outside their properties to help limit flooding.

Animals

Pet and livestock owners are advised to keep their animals inside wherever possible during the peak times of the storm.

Advice will also be issued by the GSPCA.

Waste collection

Given the predicted high winds, a decision on bin collections for this week will be taken and announced later today.

Information on bin collections is posted HERE. 

Fireworks

As Bonfire Night approaches, numerous firework displays are planned for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

Advice will be given later this week factoring in the latest forecasts at that time. Event organisers are advised to check for latest guidance on Thursday.

READ MORE...

STORM CIARAN: What's forecast?

STORM CIARAN: Condor sailings affected

STORM CIARAN: Warnings and advice