Channel Islands - Weather

Summer weather is generally settled, but during the rest of the year, it can change very quickly. The winds during summer alternate between NW and NE. At other times, SW winds are more frequent and this is also the direction of most gales. More than strong winds, the main danger in the islands is the extremely strong tidal streams, the notorious Alderney Race reaching 8 knots on occasions. Other hazards are concealed rocks and poor visibility.

Guernsey Coastguard

VHF Channel 16 and Channel 20

Marine Safety Information Broadcasts will be announced by Guernsey Coastguard on VHF Channel 16 before being broadcast in full on VHF Channel 20.  The full Channel Islands shipping forecast will not be included as part of the MSI broadcast for Guernsey as this is undertaken by Jersey Coastguard for the whole Channel Islands sea area.

The Channel Islands shipping forecast will be available on request to mariners by contacting Guernsey Coastguard .

The MSI will generally be broadcast at the following times (All times in UTC/GMT):

• 01.33, 05.33, 09.33, 13.33, 17.33, 21.33.

Jersey Coastguard

VHF Channel 25 and Channel 82

Shipping Forecast (and any gale or navigational warnings) at 06:45, 07:45, 08:45, 12:45, 18:45, 22:45. Gale Warnings, on receipt and at 03:07, 09:07, 15:07,21:07.

Wind information (speed and guests at St Helier Port Control) transmitted on VHF Channel 18 every two minutes.

Other Weather Links:

• Channel Islands Marine weather forecast
• Jersey Weather Forecast - It is also possible to talk to a Jersey Met weather forecaster by phone at 0905 807 7777, but the service costs £1.50/min.
• https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/world/channel_islands
• For links to free global weather information, forecast services and extreme weather information see the Noonsite Weather Page.