Storm Austen, which is predicted to hit Jersey on Thursday evening, will mean the closure of all government schools on Friday, the government confirmed this evening.
Education Minister Catherine Curtis took the decision to close government schools based on a weather forecast showing winds of force 9 by Friday morning. The announcement was made as early as possible, Islanders were told, to give families time to organise childcare arrangements.
Independent schools and private nurseries have yet to confirm whether or not they will follow suit.
The news about the government schools came alongside an update about forecast weather conditions from Jersey Met, which the government advised that a red wind warning was likely to be issued during the early hours of Thursday, 24 hours ahead of the start of the strongest winds expected early on Friday morning,
The statement continued: “Taking into account the detailed weather picture and the time of day that the strongest winds are forecast on Friday morning, Islanders are being advised to avoid outdoor activity where possible.
“Although Storm Austen is not predicted to be as severe as Storms Ciarán [in November 2023] or Goretti [January 2026], it is likely that there will be disruption to travel as well as potential damage to trees affecting travel routes, and a risk of localised flooding.”
The Jersey Met forecast indicates that winds will increase from Thursday evening and overnight, reaching a peak on Friday morning, remaining very strong and gusty throughout the day.
On Friday morning, winds are forecast to reach Gale F8 to Severe Gale F9 with gusts of 70 to 80 mph with a gradual decrease during the afternoon.
Islanders are urged to stay tuned with the latest news via sources such as the Bailiwick Express and JEP websites, as well as the government’s social media accounts.
