Schools to close on Thursday due to "significant" weather risks

Tuesday 31 October 2023

All Government schools and colleges will close on Thursday due to "the significant risks posed by Storm Ciarán" – with the airport also set to close for commercial operations, and the hospital only open for emergencies.

The Government confirmed that the decision was made this morning following meetings of both the Strategic Command Group and the Council of Ministers.

A decision on school openings for Friday 3 November will be made at a later date.

This decision will be "based on an assessment of any damage to schools and colleges, and the ongoing risks".

Private schools and nurseries are also being provided with the same advice as Government schools and colleges.

Hospital

The Government has also announced that islanders should only visit the hospital on Thursday 2 November if it is an emergency, or they have been contacted and expressly asked to attend.

Medical day centres will be closed and home births are also suspended. The emergency department will be open as usual for life threatening or serious illnesses.

Airport

Due to the severe weather warning, airport authorities have decided to close the airport to commercial operations all day on Thursday.

The airport will remain open for emergency and medical flights, and will reopen on Friday after a visual inspection of the airport infrastructure. 

Boats

Passenger and freight ferry services are severely disrupted and Jersey Coastguard is advising islanders to keep away from coastal areas, as there is a risk people could be swept out to sea from piers and seawalls.

Boat owners are being reminded to secure their vessels appropriately, and harbour businesses are advised to check their properties and secure their equipment.

Elizabeth Terminal will be closed to the public on Thursday, and the storm gate in Elizabeth Marina will close today.

Regular updates on Storm Ciarán will be provided on the Government's social media channels.

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