Guernsey Prepares for Storm Darragh’s 75mph Winds; Boat Owners and Public Issued Warnings

Winds gusting up to 75mph (120km/h) are anticipated to impact Guernsey this weekend as Storm Darragh approaches. The States of Guernsey stated that wind speeds are expected to intensify on Friday evening and throughout Saturday, reaching their peak strength on Saturday afternoon. Guernsey Harbours has cautioned boat owners to secure their vessels by thoroughly checking covers and hatches and ensuring mooring lines are correctly rigged. The States of Guernsey advised islanders that they “should consider cancelling any activities which may put them at risk.” These warnings are issued in conjunction with a red wind warning valid from 03:00 to 11:00 GMT on Saturday, covering the western and southern coastal regions of Wales, as well as the Bristol Channel in England. The States communicated: “Anything on the coast, particularly on the west coast, could be very dangerous and people should avoid these areas. “Depending on how badly the winds materialise, outdoor activities in general may be unwise.”Unlike Jersey, our tides are expected to be high, so we are expecting some degree of flooding on the west coast.”There will almost certainly be major disruption at the ports and airport tomorrow, with the possibility it extends into Sunday.” Guernsey Football Club has postponed its fixture against Ashford Town, which was scheduled for Saturday. The National Trust of Guernsey cancelled its Christmas market at Saumarez Park, originally planned for Monday. The organization stated: “Our hearts go out to all the stallholders, suppliers, staff and volunteers who have worked so hard to make this one of Guernsey’s favourite Christmas events.” The States of Alderney urged individuals to “take extra care when venturing out.” It further advised: “Particular emphasis is placed on avoiding the west coast of the island on Saturday when the most severe period of weather is forecast.” Access to the Commercial Quay will be restricted to “essential personnel only,” and people were discouraged from attempting to visit the Admiralty Breakwater and surrounding areas during the severe weather. Aurigny has notified customers booked on flights for Saturday and Sunday about the potential for disruption. The airline offered a complimentary change option, allowing passengers to move to an alternative flight within seven days of the original scheduled departure, or the opportunity to travel earlier on Friday. Chief commercial officer Sudeep Ghai commented: “We hope the extra flexibility offered will provide some reassurance and a little extra certainty to our communities at this time.” As a precautionary measure, Guernsey’s house waste and recycling centre and the Mont Cuet green waste site will be closed on Saturday. Darragh is the fourth named storm of the season, arriving only weeks after Storm Bert and Storm Conall caused disruptions at the end of last month. Forecasters indicated that while heavy rain is anticipated, the amount of rainfall and subsequent flooding is unlikely to be as severe as that experienced with Storm Bert. For updates, follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook, or submit story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.