Road closures during extreme weather on Isle of Man tomorrow

Road closures ahead of extreme weather warnings on the Isle of Man will be put in place tomorrow.

Severe gale force winds, heavy rain and large waves breaking over sea defences will result in travel disruption and the potential for storm damage.

High winds and low atmospheric pressure will create a storm surge around the time of tomorrow’s high tide at 12.50pm, with waves of more than six metres expected to throw large stones and debris onto roads.

The Mountain Road will be closed from 6am until 2pm tomorrow, with gusts approaching 80mph and rainfall of between 40mm and 60mm forecast for higher ground, as well as mist.

Vulnerable seafront areas will also be closed from 10.30am in the interests of public safety, including:

· Douglas Promenade, from Greensills Corner to Port Jack

· Bay-ny-Carrickey/Shore Road, Rushen

· Douglas Street, Castletown

· Castletown Promenade

· Fenella Beach/Castle Causeway, Peel

· Laxey Promenade, from Shore Road to Tent Road

· Ramsey Promenade

The situation will be assessed during the early afternoon, with the intention of reopening these routes on a priority basis before 5pm.

Sandbags are available from all fire stations (Quarterbridge car park in Douglas rather than Douglas fire station) and civic amenity sites. Sandbags will also be available at the coach park in Laxey.

Motorists should abide by road closures and traffic diversions, even if they are driving a vehicle they feel is capable of negotiating flood water and to park away from the seafront.

Pedestrians are urged to exercise extreme caution and stay clear from where waves are breaking.

Any incidents of standing water on the highways should be reported to the Department of Infrastructure on 850000, while people should call 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency. Flood advice is available from Manx Utilities on 687687.