Schools to close on Friday due to Storm Austen

All schools have been told to close on Friday because of the high winds predicted to be caused by Storm Austen, the Government of Jersey has said.

Winds of up to 80mph are set to hit Jersey on Friday morning, with a red wind warning expected to be issued for the Channel Islands on Thursday.

The Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning made the decision to close all Government of Jersey schools "as early as possible to give families time to organise childcare arrangements".

Staff have been made told of the plans, which are also being communicated to parents.

Storm Austen is due to pass over the Channel Islands late on Thursday and into Friday.

Wind speeds are expected to reach force eight and nine, with the potential for storm force 10 and stronger gusts during its peak at approximately 07:00 BSt on Friday.

In an update, the Government of Jersey said: "Although Storm Austen is not predicted to be as severe as Storms Ciaran or Gorreti, 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 States of Guernsey added: "The wind speeds are expected to be an order of magnitude lower [than Goretti], however they will still be high.

"We would strongly encourage people to be mindful of the weather when planning their day."

Islanders have been advised to avoid outdoor activity and stay indoors where possible while the warnings are in place.

Follow BBC Jersey on X,Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.