Islanders picking up the pieces after Storm Ciaran

A top speed of 77mph was recorded by Guernsey at about 6.30am yesterday. While the violent winds caused extensive damage, it was well below the 100mph predicted. More than 70 trees fell, leaving roads blocked, and many homes lost roof tiles. But utilities were maintained and last night rubbish collections resumed. Head of Bailiwick Law Enforcement Ruari Hardy headed up the Strategic Coordinating Group for the Storm Ciaran response.

‘We collectively weathered the storm well as an island,’ he said.

‘Most importantly, as the protection of life is always our primary focus, we have had no reported injuries as a result of the storm and that’s great news. However, for some islanders they are today facing significant challenges as a result of damage to properties and vehicles and support is being provided where necessary.’

Alderney and Jersey both recorded wind speeds of more than 100mph, and Jersey in particular suffered significant damage.

Meanwhile damage in Guernsey was more limited. The GSPCA sustained extensive damage from falling trees, while the roof of a warehouse in Lowlands Estate was ripped off.

Schools are reopening today but the College of Further Education is remaining closed

Both the college’s Coutanchez and Delancey sites received significant water damage as a result of pre-existing issues with the buildings.

The States' stay at home advice was withdrawn at 5pm on Thursday, but drivers were warned that roads remained challenging.

A number are still blocked by fallen trees and return of buses to the roads could face some disruption.

However, the shops will be back open after most, including all supermarkets, being closed all day.

The Commodore Goodwill freight boat was due to arrive at 5.30am today.

States strategic coordinating group chairman Ruari Hardy said last night that he was happy with the progress being made to clear the island’s roads and secure infrastructure.

‘This has made us confident in declaring that this is no longer a major incident and we’re into the phase of trying to return the island to normality as soon as possible,’ he said.

Home Affairs president Rob Prow thanked the emergency services for their efforts.

One States site hit by the storm was the Princess Elizabeth Hospital.

Part of a third floor corrugated plastic roof, near maternity services' Loveridge Ward, popped out.

A hospital spokesman said that everyone was safe and there was no risk to patients, who have been able to remain in situ.

They added that the hospital was operating as normal.

In the grounds of the hospital at the entrance off Le Vauquiedor a large lime tree was split in half and fell across the road.

A number of other large trees were also uprooted, but most fell on to open ground.

Tree surgeons from Guernsey Tree Services were on site just after 9am to clear the hospital entrance.

Owner Ric David said later that he had literally lost count of the number of trees he had been to see during the day.

‘We cleared the Val des Terres, a tree blocking a clos in St Martin’s, one on a house in Vazon that had to be winched off.

‘I’ve got a whole heap of messages I haven’t had a chance to look at properly. It will probably take us a month at least to catch up.

‘It’s probably been the busiest day we have ever had,’ he said.

‘The one word I would use to describe it is... carnage.’