Thousands of homes and businesses lost power last night as the Island was battered by gale force winds.

Belco said the main power-outs happened between 10.30 p.m. and 11.45 p.m. yesterday, affecting about 9,000 customers.

The company said that by 9.15 a.m. today the number of customers left without power had been reduced to 1,200 and it was expected that all power would be restored by tonight.

Sustained winds of 47 knots, with gusts up to 62 knots, were recorded last night prompting the Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing Senator David Burch to issue a public safety advisory. As a precautionary measure, the Causeway was closed and re-opened at about 4.30 a.m..

However with winds still expected to be strong today, the Minister urged motorists, particularly cyclists, to proceed with “extreme care and caution”.

Sen. Burch said: “I am pleased that all necessary personnel were ready from the outset of this event. All precautionary measures were quickly put into place and executed efficiently and effectively.

“It is important that decisions where injury and life must be considered are taken serious and I am pleased to say, our team met the challenge last evening and into this morning.”

* Full story and pictures in tomorrow's Royal Gazette.