Safety comes first with all students in Guernsey and Alderney told to stay at home today as the clean up starts after Storm Goretti battered the Bailiwick.
With more than 60 trees confirmed down across Guernsey alone, and structural damage reported at some schools, a decision was made early on Friday morning to keep all educational sites closed until Monday.
Students had only returned to lessons this week after the Christmas break, but with much of the damage from the overnight storm not yet known it was decided that keeping schools, the private colleges and the Guernsey Institute closed today would reduce any risk to student or staff safety.
“We appreciate that this may cause inconvenience to some families, however this decision was taken to reduce risks given many major roads are blocked or covered in debris,” said a spokesperson for the States.
“This will also support efforts to clear the roads as quickly and effectively as possible without the added pressure of heavy morning traffic.
“Further, there is damage to school buildings and facilities which is still being assessed.”
All educational sites will closed throughout Friday and are expected to open as normal on Monday 12 January.
TREES
At least 64 trees fell in Guernsey overnight, with some blocking major routes including roads offering access to the island’s schools.
The image at the top of the page shows La Moye in the Vale, taken by Phil Trouteaud.
Express is aware of other trees down blocking roads including on the Fosse Andre, Le Friquet, Gibauderie, Bailiff’s Cross Road, Le Vacquiedor, Longcamps, and near Beau Sejour.