'Major incident' in Jersey amid red wind warning

A "major incident" has been declared in Jersey amid a red warning for wind as Storm Goretti approaches.

The Government of Jersey advised islanders to "stay home and stay safe" with the strongest winds expected between 19:00 GMT and 03:00 on Friday. The major incident declaration in force over the same period.

Jersey Met said the storm would bring heavy rain and showers from 16:30 GMT alongside force 11 winds gusting up to 90mph (144km/h) from 20:00.

Forecaster Bryan de Gruchy said the island could be battered by gusts similar to a 2023 storm which caused people to evacuate their homes.

De Gruchy said wind speed levels would approach those of Storm Ciarán when winds of more than 100mph (160km/h) left fallen trees, flooded roads and ripped roofs from homes.

He said storms were "extremely unpredictable" but that he did not think the damage would be at the same levels of the previous storm.

"Particularly for parts of the east of the island, they experienced that rather nasty tornado - it's impossible to say whether that sort of thing would happen again," he said.

Forecaster John Searson also warned the storm could cause issues inland and on the coast.

"These gusts are likely to knock down trees and damage buildings, then there'll be debris flying around in the wind," he said.

"We've also got a high tide at 10:00 and a significant storm surge is expected, together with very big waves.

"All in all, heed the advice of the authorities and stay indoors from 18:00 to stay away from the danger."

RNLI Jersey said to stay away from the coast as it was "not worth the risk".

"If you're near the coast, please keep well back from the water," it said.

"Conditions could easily knock you off your feet or sweep you into the sea."

It urged people to stay away from cliff edges, check the weather forecast and tide times before heading out and to keep your phone with you.

The government asked islanders to "only call the emergency services overnight if there is a risk to life".

The government said schools would open tomorrow unless parents heard otherwise directly from the individual school.

Jersey Airport said it would be closing at 18:00 and it expected to open on Friday at 05:30 but said some flights might be affected.

"Please check directly with your airline for the latest flight status information," bosses said. ​

"Safety is our highest priority - if your flight is cancelled, please don't travel to the airport, we will share further updates via social media.​"

Jersey Mutual Insurance Society advised islanders to secure windows, doors and outside belongings ahead of the storm and to prepare an emergency kit such as water, non-perishable food and a torch.

It also said to make sure bins and outdoor furniture were secure and to bring anything you could inside.

The government said the Emergency Department would remain open but asked islanders to only visit "if you are experiencing a genuine medical emergency".

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