ADVICE: Prepare for flooding, islanders urged

Wednesday 03 January 2024

A weather warning has been issued for today with more heavy rain and strong winds expected – and islanders with flood-prone homes are being urged to prepare.

Jersey Met has forecast a period of potentially prolonged and heavy rainfall from early morning to early afternoon on Thursday.

Paul Aked, Head of Meteorology at @Jersey_Met provides insights into the approaching severe weather forecast, which is expected tomorrow morning. pic.twitter.com/rgugKpedpD

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) January 3, 2024

Video: Jersey Met's Paul Aked provided insights on the severe weather to come.

A small low-pressure system is expected to move across the Channel Islands – and rainfall is expected to be between 10 to 20 mm today. 

This morning, forecasters issued a 'yellow' thunderstorm warning for Jersey starting at 09:20 today, which they said would last 12 hours.

Further rainfall is expected early afternoon and showers later this afternoon into this evening, some of which will be heavy and there is the potential risk of flooding at times in low-lying areas.

Thunderstorm warning for Guernsey valid from 09:20 Wednesday 03 Jan 2024 for 12 hours. pic.twitter.com/NjJlGEImak

— CI Weather Warnings (@Jersey_MetCI) January 3, 2024

A red wind warning was issued at 8:48 for the Channel Island Shipping Area, and very strong and gusty winds are expected to follow this evening. Peak winds are forecast to be between 17:00 and 17:00. 

Yesterday, the Parish of St Helier announced on social media that Vallée des Vaux was closed due to flooding on the carriageway. The road has since been opened with no surface water remaining.

The Government says it is monitoring the situation and will continue to liaise with the Jersey Met Office.

They said: "At this stage, please remain aware of the weather forecast and any further advice issued from the Government of Jersey.

"If you live in an area prone to flooding it would be prudent to prepare in case of potential flooding."

Teams from Jersey Met, Infrastructure & Environment, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service, States of Jersey Police and Honorary Police, Jersey Water, and Andium will monitor the evolving weather situation with visits to residents in the Grands Vaux area, as well as the erection of flood defences, being undertaken to mitigate the potential impact of flooding.

Yesterday, Andium Homes said: "Our drains have been inspected and cleaned today and as a precaution, we will be deploying sandbags and flood defences at Nicholson Close and Pillar Gardens this afternoon."

ADVICE...

Government officials have shared the following tips on what to do before, during and after a flood...

Before a flood:

• Learn how to turn off gas, electricity, and water; mark switches with stickers for quick access.
• Check your insurance coverage for flooding.
• Consider flood protection products like sandbags or floorboards.
• Prepare a supply of bottled water or fill jugs/saucepans with clean water.
• Consider staying with friends/family.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit including a torch, spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, important numbers like your home insurance, water, food, first aid kit and any medicines and baby care items you may need.

During a flood:

• Move family and pets upstairs, away from windows.
• Consider checking on the safety and preparations of vulnerable or elderly neighbours, if it is safe to do so.
• Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies when flood water is about to enter your home. DO NOT touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water.
• Flood water can rise quickly, stay calm and reassure those around you. Call 999 if you are in danger.

After a flood:

• Wait for official announcements before returning home.
• Contact your insurance company for cleanup assistance and check electrical appliances.
• Wear protective clothing during cleanup, disinfect items, and ensure safe disposal of contaminated items.
• Check gas or oil central heating before use.
• Dry out the house using central heating, ventilation, and dehumidifiers.