Guernsey is preparing for Storm Austen to ease after overnight winds brought down trees, damaged property and forced road closures.
A peak gust of 76mph was likely recorded at 05:41, according to the States, with winds still reaching Force 8 and gusting up to 60mph this morning.
The worst of the storm is expected to pass by around midday, although strong winds and heavy, intermittent rain are forecast to continue through the afternoon.
Emergency services have responded to reports of fallen trees across the island, with most cleared by fire crews or tree surgeons.
Crews also attended reports of structural damage at a private property in the early hours.
Travel chaos
Several roads across the island were reported to be closed by the police, because of fallen trees, loose tiles and dangerous scaffolding.
Buses are expected to resume from around 11:00, depending on conditions, after services were suspended during the worst of the weather.
Guernsey Airport is expected to reopen at 12:00, with flights not expected to resume before 14:00.
Alderney Airport is also due to reopen at midday, with services expected to restart during the afternoon.
Travellers are advised to check with their airline before setting off, as further disruption is possible while services recover.
Schools, shops and services shut
All schools are closed today, while a number of public services, shops and facilities have delayed opening or shut for the day.
All Co-ops and Waitrose supermarkets have delayed opening until 13:00 this afternoon, for the safety of customers and staff.
Guernsey Post has cancelled all deliveries and collections, with services expected to resume on Saturday and additional deliveries planned for Sunday.
The Household Waste and Recycling Centre at Longue Hougue and the green waste site at Mont Cuet are closed today and Saturday.
The States of Alderney said it had also received reports of fallen trees across the island.
Work to clear them would begin as soon as weather conditions allow it, a spokesperson said, adding: “If you do need to go out, please exercise extreme caution and be aware of potential hazards, including fallen trees and debris.”
Emergency services in Guernsey have thanked islanders for keeping roads largely clear, allowing crews to respond quickly to reports as they came in.
Although the strongest winds are expected to ease around midday, islanders are being urged to remain cautious, with conditions forecast to remain blustery through the weekend.
