Angus batters Jersey with hurricane force winds

Monday 21 November 2016

Islanders spent much of the weekend clearing up after the violent storms, with roads closed, roofs blown off and travel disrupted. And the strong winds are due to return tonight, with forecasters predicting gusts topping storm force 10, or 70mph.

Over the weekend there were even reports of sheds and numerous trampolines being blown into the middle of the road, and a gas leak this morning in Grouville.

Some roads, including Rue de la Croix in St Clement (pictured) remain blocked this morning. 

On Saturday night, the winds got up to at least force 11, with gusts recorded at more than 87mph - the highest speeds for more than 25 years. It was slightly better last night with the winds only reaching gale force 6. The fire service received 11 calls when the storm was at its peak between 02:30 and 04:00 on Saturday night,  and they had to call in fire-fighters from the western fire station, just to cope with the sudden and urgent demand. 

Blue Islands issued a statement on Sunday warning of flight disruption, after one of their planes was damaged on the tarmac at Guernsey Airport.

Rob Veron, Blue Islands CEO, said: 

"Some of today's (Sunday's) flights will be disrupted as a result of a Blue Islands aircraft suffering damage overnight during storm force winds. The aircraft was struck by a piece of airport equipment whilst parked at Guernsey Airport. Blue Islands is this morning assessing the damage and working to restore our normal operation. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Trees were brought down and property damaged across the Island, with the States and Honorary Police working throughout the weekend to clear the debris. That work continues today.

Head of the Honorary Police Hugh Raymond told Express that he was "humbled by the work that has been carrying on."

"All the parishes have got on with it in their own way, working through the night and then up first thing in the morning again to let people know what roads were shut and to get roads open."

At one point, Mr Raymond described Trinity as "virtually ring-fenced" after three main roads in Trinity were shut due to fallen trees, raising concerns over access for the emergency services and potential road accidents.

"Even at 10 to 15 miles per hour, there is a danger for someone coming round a corner and finding a tree," he said.

Mr Raymond is now calling for branchage inspectors to "keep a watchful eye, and take a serious look at [trees] still standing, and whether they're dangerous or not - we never know which will come down."

Yesterday, the Chief Minister Senator Ian Gorst tweeted his praise and gratitude for the emergency services, the Honorary Police, States employees and the coast guard..."...for keeping us safe through a wild night."