The Isle of Man is bracing for the impact of Storm Ashley, which is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the island over the weekend. The storm has already prompted ferry cancellations, flood warnings, and road closures.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has warned of possible ferry disruption over the weekend due to Storm Ashley, with all of Sunday’s crossings in doubt. The ferry operator said the Manxman’s crossings between Douglas and Heysham Port in Lancashire were in danger of cancellation from Saturday evening.

Sunday afternoon’s return trip to Liverpool by the fast craft Manannan is also subject to possible changes, it added. The ferry operator said the Manxman’s crossings between Douglas and Heysham Port in Lancashire were in danger of cancellation from Saturday evening.

Sunday afternoon’s return trip to Liverpool by the fast craft Manannan is also subject to possible changes, it added.

Flood Warnings and Road Closures

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for inner harbor flooding and coastal overtopping this evening and tomorrow morning. Forecasters predict a number of weather warnings over the course of the weekend.

The Department of Infrastructure (DoI) has outlined flood prevention measures to protect premises around the island, following Ronaldsway Met Office issuing an amber weather warning for flooding and coastal overtopping.

The DoI has also made sandbags available to members of the public and businesses in all the areas expected to be hit. Residents and motorists in these areas are urged to be cautious, as seawater and debris could make conditions hazardous.

Emergency road closures have taken effect in Ramsey due to potential flooding and will remain in force up to and including Sunday. The restrictions apply along the length of both Christian Street and West Street. The closures have been imposed by the DoI with the only exemptions applying to emergency and public works vehicles, and those that require access to properties.

The Storm's Impact

Storm Ashley is due to pass through the British Isles from the early hours of Sunday morning with Southerly wind gusts of 45-55mph and the possibility of 60mph or more in exposed areas.

Gales are expected to bring debris onto Manx coastal roads and cause harbor flooding at high tide. The ferry operator say that gale warnings are in place all through the weekend for marine traffic. Therefore its issuing a weather warning for some Heysham sailings this weekend due to ‘the direction and speed of the forecast wind’.

Services to Liverpool are currently expected to be less impacted by the strong winds and sea state, although the 3pm sailing on Sunday, and its return, are subject to a weather warning due to the high winds and anticipated sea state.

Preparing for the Storm

The Isle of Man government is urging residents to take precautions and prepare for the storm. The DoI has outlined flood prevention measures to protect premises around the island. The DoI has also made sandbags available to members of the public and businesses in all the areas expected to be hit.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has advised passengers to check their booking status and make alternative arrangements if necessary. Passengers affected by changes are encouraged to contact the reservations team on 661661 (IOM), 08722 992 992 (UK) or 0044 8722 992 992 (ROI & Outside UK) to make alternative arrangements.

The Steam Packet say that as always with warnings, the team ashore and afloat will ‘continue to maintain a close watch on developing forecasts and will make every effort to ensure sailings are able to go ahead safely’.

A Reminder of the Storm's Potential Impact

The Isle of Man is no stranger to severe weather, but Storm Ashley is a reminder of the potential impact that storms can have on the island. With its exposed coastline and vulnerable infrastructure, the island is particularly susceptible to the effects of high winds and heavy rain.

The Isle of Man government and emergency services are well-prepared for such events, but it is important for residents to take precautions and be aware of the risks. By staying informed and prepared, we can all help to minimize the impact of Storm Ashley on the Isle of Man.