This morning’s weather forecast has included a flood warning for Guernsey’s west coast tonight with the road closing at Perelle from 13:00 as a precaution.
The decision was made to close the low-lying coastal road after this morning’s weather forecast was issued by the Met Office.
It issued a Red wind alert early this morning, for the entire Channel Islands Shipping Area.
That confirms a “violent storm” currently rated as Force 11 with even stronger gusts is due to reach the islands tonight.
The wind is going to build in strength throughout the day with advice issued to stay inside from 18:00 onwards.
We should see the storm peak from 21:00 onwards, with hurricane strength gusts of wind at times.
The official advice also remains to avoid outdoor activities as the wind builds today and to stay indoors this evening and overnight.
The winds will be West/South Westerly meaning the island’s west coast is expected to be hit hard when the high tide peaks at 22:10.
This morning’s high tide has already passed with no damage or flooding yet reported but a Flood Warning has been issued by the Met Office ahead of tonight’s storm.
In response to that, a States spokesperson said the flooding risk at Perelle means the road will be closed from 13:00 ahead of the afternoon’s low tide and it will remain closed until advised otherwise.
A States spokesperson explained the decision was taken to close Perelle early because of the working hours of the staff involved in placing the signs/barriers required.
“It would be sensible to avoid all coastal areas later on today, as the winds start to pick up,” they added.
A Tide Alert has also been issued for the west coast ahead of tomorrow morning’s high tide.
The 10:30 high tide will coincide with northwesterly winds predicted to reach F8.
Further information about any west coast road closures will be shared by the States closer to the time.