'Stay at home' key message as Guernsey braces for worst storm since 1987
Guernsey is bracing itself for its worst storms since 1987 as hurricane-force winds are due to batter the island tonight.
All schools and the airport are shut tomorrow, and some shops are also looking to close, with the States urging people to stay at home.
The Met Office is predicting that winds of almost 100mph will cause damage and flooding.
The States acted swiftly in the face of the oncoming storm, urging islanders to stay at home wherever possible.
Chief operating officer Jason Moriarty said they were briefed on Monday.
‘There was a clear consistent view that a severe weather episode was very likely. As a result we have moved quickly to put the necessary plans in place to reduce the impact the storm will have.’
Mr Moriarty said this had the potential to be the equal of the great storm of 1987 when gusts of 93mph rocked the island, causing widespread damage.
‘The strength of the expected forecast makes it a very rare occasion.
‘The key message is to stay at home on Thursday.’
High winds are forecast to pick up from this evening, blowing south to south-east, reaching 80mph by midnight, before veering west and peaking at speeds approaching 97mph by dawn. Winds are predicted to decrease through the rest of tomorrow, but are still expected to include gusts of 70mph.
The States had advised its employees to work from home where possible on Thursday, as has the island’s largest private employer, Specsavers.
However tonight’s parish meetings are currently expected to go ahead, except in Forest and St Martin’s.
The States is keeping www.gov.gg/stormciaran updated
