Storm Ciarán: Hailstones the size of ice lollies pepper Jersey as major incident declared

  • High waves come over the top of the sea wall at Gorey Pier in Jersey

Hailstones the size of ice lollies have battered parts of Jersey as Storm Ciaran bears down on the islands.

Residents posted pictures of the stones - some of them about 9cm in length, others the size of golf balls - that have crashed through conservatory roofs and peppered properties and gardens.

Authorities in Jersey declared Storm Ciarán a "major incident" as of midnight on Thursday 2 November.

Some people have been forced to leave their homes for emergency accommodation.

Forecasters are now predicting winds of nearly 100mph will hit the Channel Islands as the storm arrived overnight.

The storm is expected to peak between 4am-9am on Thursday, with gusts reaching up to a "violent storm force 11" on the Beaufort scale.

Photos of the 5cm hail that is hitting Jersey at midnight. Credit: Melissa Carver

Around midnight, trees already began falling and debris led to several road closures.

Officials are warning people to stay away from coastal areas and not to put themselves in any unnecessary danger.

Disruption is already being caused before the eye of the storm hits. Credit: Domonic AAA Tree Services.

Red weather warnings for coastal flooding, high winds and thunderstorms have been issued by Jersey Met when the storm is expected to peak.

Roads around the Channel Islands are being closed while temporary flood defences are put in place.

In Jersey, Victoria Avenue, Havre des Pas, Green Street, Roseville Street, Cleveland Road and La Neuve Route will close from 5:30pm on Wednesday 1 November.

In Guernsey, motorists are being urged to "park sensibly" by police. Bailiwick Law Enforcement says "anyone who needs to drive [on Thursday] should do so cautiously."

A "situation room" is being set up in the headquarters of Jersey Police to co-ordinate the emergency response.

An 'advice line' for Jersey residents needing non-emergency support will be in place from midnight on Thursday. It will be available on 01534 612222.

In an emergency, islanders can still call 999.

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