Guernsey is preparing to batten down the hatches as Storm Austen threatens to bring powerful gusts of up to 75mph, less than a year after Storm Goretti left widespread damage across the Bailiwick.
Boat owners have been urged to secure their vessels, the GSPCA has issued advice to protect animals, and Aurigny is offering some passengers the chance to change their flights as the storm approaches.
Gale force nine gusts of up to 75mph (121km/h) are forecast on Thursday night and Friday morning, according to Jersey Met’s forecast for Guernsey.
The UK Met Office has named the first storm of the season Storm Austen, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to move through the islands from Thursday evening.
While the winds are currently forecast to fall short of the strongest gusts recorded during previous storms, the approaching weather is a reminder of the damage severe conditions can cause.
Storm Goretti brought gusts of 84mph to Guernsey Airport in January, with fallen trees, road closures and damage to buildings among the consequences.
Around 50 people had to be relocated after a fallen tree caused structural damage to two blocks of flats in St Peter Port.
Boat owners told to secure vessels
Guernsey Ports has urged berth holders to check their boats and moorings before conditions deteriorate, as part of preparations for the winter.
Harbour master James Way said: “The arrival of Storm Austen is a timely reminder to check your vessels are ready for the winter, if you haven’t had the chance to already.
“With strong winds forecast, we would encourage boat owners to take a few simple precautions and make sure their vessels, moorings and equipment are secure before conditions deteriorate.”
Advice includes checking mooring lines are in good condition, ensuring fenders are correctly positioned and adequately inflated, making sure shore power connections are safe, and removing or securing loose items on deck.
The walk-ashore bridge linking the Swan pontoons to Crown Pier in St Peter Port Harbour has also been removed ahead of its annual winter maintenance programme.
Guernsey Ports said the bridge and other seasonal pontoon infrastructure would be returned in the spring after being cleaned and inspected.
GSPCA warns animal owners
The GSPCA has urged islanders to take extra care of pets, livestock and wildlife during the storm.
The charity said strong winds and heavy rain could pose risks to animals kept outdoors, with owners advised to check that hutches, coops, aviaries, fencing and shelters are secure.
Rabbits, tortoises and poultry should have protection from the elements, while horses and livestock should have suitable shelter and be checked regularly.
GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said: “Periods of high winds can be stressful and dangerous for animals.
“We would ask all pet owners and animal keepers to take a few moments to check outdoor hutches, enclosures, fencing and shelters to ensure they are secure and able to withstand the weather conditions.”
Dog owners have also been advised to avoid unnecessary risks near cliffs, coastal areas and other exposed locations.
The charity is particularly concerned about the impact on wildlife, including seal pups, as rough weather can separate young seals from their mothers.
Mr Byrne said people should give seal pups space and avoid approaching them, as getting too close could frighten them and prevent a mother from returning.
Anyone concerned about a seal pup or other sick, injured or distressed wildlife is asked to contact the GSPCA on 01481 257261.
The charity has also reminded islanders not to put themselves in danger attempting to rescue animals during the storm.
Aurigny offers flight changes
Aurigny has activated its WeatherFlex policy, allowing eligible passengers to move their flights to an alternative date within five days of their original departure without paying a change fee.
The flexibility applies to all services to and from Alderney between 21 and 23 October, as well as all flights to and from Guernsey on 23 October.
Selected ATR network flights to and from Guernsey are also eligible on 22 October.
Affected customers have been contacted directly by email with details of their options. Those who booked through a travel agency should contact their agent.
Aurigny said it intended to operate its scheduled services as planned wherever safe conditions permitted.
However, passengers whose flights are subsequently cancelled because of adverse weather will be eligible for a full refund.
Clive Acton, Aurigny’s head of customer services, said: “We hope this additional flexibility will provide our communities with some reassurance and greater certainty as they make their travel plans during this period of unsettled weather.”
The airline warned that its phone lines could be busier than usual and asked customers to call only if their enquiry was urgent and related to travel over the next few days.
