Schools closing Thursday and islanders advised to stay home during Storm Ciaran
SCHOOLS will be closed on Thursday and islanders are being advised to stay indoors, when Storm Ciaran arrives later this week.
Winds of up to 95mph are expected during the storm, which is due to arrive on Wednesday and batter the island in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Islanders are being advised to stay at home if possible and not travel unless essential.
'Businesses are advised to review their business continuity plans, prepare for the risk of flooding on the coasts and issue advice for their staff,' the States spokesman said.
'Based on the current forecast, States of Guernsey advice is for islanders to remain at home wherever possible during the worst of the storm, including working from home if possible.'
'States-run schools will be closed on Thursday, due to the currently predicted timing of the storm’s worst impact.'
Elizabeth College has also confirmed it is shutting on Thursday. There has been no update from Ladies College and Blanchelande yet.
Police officers will be continuously assessing road safety conditions during the storm, with social media updates.
'Advice is likely to focus on road conditions and the impact of the storm, including damage to trees or structures affecting roads.'
The emergency services have put in place arrangements to keep operating, with Civil Protection providing support.
Health & Social Care has its own transport arrangements for staff during severe weather conditions. St John Ambulance will assist with the provision of transport for essential patients.
Air travellers have been warned to expect disruption to services over the coming days, and Aurigny is already offering refunds or changes for people travelling between noon on Wednesday at 9pm on Thursday.
Significant disruption is also expected for shipping services, with some Condor services already cancelled.
Boat owners are advised to ensures their vessels are tightly moored with hatches and covers secured and bilge pumps operating.
Residents are advised to make sure their properties are secure, including garden furniture and others outside fixtures, and also to clear any drains.
A decision on whether bin collections will operate has not yet been made.
Pet and livestock owners are advised to keep their animals inside during the worst parts of the storm.
CT Plus and school bus operators will be making 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.
The States of Guernsey and Guernsey Police will give updates on social media, and there will also be updated on www.gov.gg/stormciaran.
