Due to the weather conditions forecast, all schools on the island will remain closed on Friday 24th January.
ISLE OF MAN GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT:
A red weather warning is now in place for the Island from 7 am until 2 pm tomorrow (Friday).
Storm force winds with gusts of up to 85 mph and coastal overtopping are expected, with coastal areas and high ground particularly affected.
A red weather warning reflects the extraordinary force of the storm and indicates there is a risk to life as well as the risk of structural damage and considerable debris which is expected to cause island wide disruption. There is also likely to be disruption to power supplies during this period.
Given the risk associated with the storm force winds, the Government is advising people to stay at home if possible during the period of the red warning and to only travel if it is absolutely necessary.
As a result, a decision has been taken that:
- Schools will be closed on Friday
- There will be no Bus Vannin services between 7 am and 2 pm on Friday
- The A18 Mountain Road will be closed from 5 am on Friday
- Police will monitor the Mountain Road throughout Thursday night and will issue a closure earlier if required
- High sided vehicles should avoid the Mountain Road from midnight tonight
- All plantations and glens will be closed from 10 pm tonight until 6 pm Saturday to allow for some assessment after the storm
- Government public counters will be closed
Private and commercial properties as well as construction sites should be secured in good time. This includes outdoor items such as play equipment, garden furniture, scaffolding, temporary fencing, bins and storage boxes.
For those with properties in areas at risk of coastal overtopping, sandbags are available free of charge at the Island’s civic amenity sites, Civil Defence Headquarters in Tromode, as well as North Quay and Strathallan Crescent in Douglas, and West Quay in Ramsey.
The storm is likely to cause off-Island travel disruption, with delays and cancellations expected for flights and ferry sailings. Please check with your travel provider for the latest updates.
The situation is being closely monitored and preparations by government agencies and emergency services are well advanced.
Please stay at home, and stay safe. Only travel if it is absolutely necessary.
Downed trees which are causing travel disruption should be reported to the DOI on 672000. The Public are reminded not to approach any downed power lines, and should report any issues to Manx Utilities on 687687.