Jersey Schools to Close on Friday Ahead of Storm Austen

All Government of Jersey schools will close on Friday due to strong winds forecast to hit the island as Storm Austen approaches, the Government of Jersey has announced.

Winds of up to 80mph are expected to affect Jersey on Friday morning, with a red wind warning likely to be issued for the Channel Islands on Thursday.

The Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning decided to close schools in advance to give families sufficient time to arrange childcare. School staff have been informed, and parents are being notified of the closures.

Storm Austen is expected to move across the Channel Islands late on Thursday and continue into Friday. Wind speeds could reach force eight and nine, with storm force 10 winds and stronger gusts possible at the height of the storm, around 07:00 BST on Friday.

In a statement, the Government of Jersey warned that although Storm Austen is not expected to be as severe as Storms Ciarán or Goretti, it could still cause significant disruption.

Potential impacts include travel delays, fallen trees blocking roads and localised flooding.

The States of Guernsey also urged residents to take care, noting that although wind speeds are expected to be considerably lower than during Storm Goretti, conditions will remain hazardous.

Islanders across the Channel Islands have been advised to avoid outdoor activities and remain indoors where possible while weather warnings are in effect.