Aftermath of Ciarán: Flood risk continues as clean-up begins

Risk of flooding remains high in the aftermath of Storm Ciarán with schools in Jersey remaining closed today as the clean-up operation begins.

Around 150,000 properties saw power cuts on Thursday as the fierce gales of Storm Ciarán hit southern areas of the UK according to the Energy Networks Association.

Travel is easier today, although delays are still expected. At the Port of Dover there are long delays after the port was closed Thursday morning creating a backlog of ferries to be processed.

As of midday Friday, 197 flood alerts, indicating flooding is possible, and 52 flood warnings, indicating flooding is expected, are in force.

Many of these stretch along the south coast, but large parts of the midlands, East Anglia, and the north-east also see warnings.

Despite the flood warnings, it was the gusting winds which prompted the most concern. With speeds reaching hurricane-strength early Thursday morning, resulting in felled trees and damaged properties.

As the system first hit, the Channel Islands felt the full force, with wind gusts measuring 102 mph in Jersey joined by large hailstones and severe storm surge.

The Jersey airport remains closed for commercial flights today, while significant infrastructural damage has been identified at the Ports of Jersey.