Hospital and airport set to close on Thursday

Tuesday 31 October 2023

Islanders are being asked to only attend the hospital in an emergency on Thursday, whilst the airport will be closed to all commercial flights.

Elizabeth Terminal will also be closed to the public as force 10 winds are set to attack the island in what forecasters have called a "weather bomb".

The Government is encouraging all islanders to stay at home on Thursday 2 November due to the "significant risks" posed by Storm Ciarán.

A decision has already been made to close all Government schools on Thursday, with private schools and nurseries given the same advice.

Islanders should only visit the hospital on Thursday 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.

For the safety of patients and staff, we request Islanders only visit the hospital on Thurs 2 Nov if it is an emergency. Islanders should only attend their appointment if they have been contacted today or tomorrow and have been expressly asked to or advised to still attend. pic.twitter.com/VeO5T3u0a4

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) October 31, 2023

Airport authorities have also 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. 

Passenger and freight ferry services are also 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.

The Court Service – including the Royal Court, Magistrate’s Court, Family Court, Tribunal Service, Judicial Greffe and Viscount’s Department – will all be closed on Thursday "for the safety of all individuals attending court".

The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq said: "It is unfortunate that the Court Service is having to suspend operations for this short period, however it is important that members of the public minimise movement about the island during a time of high risk.

"The Court teams will work with relevant parties to reschedule any hearings that have been affected.

"I am grateful to all who have been part of the decision to ensure our island remains as safe as possible."

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

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