Storm Austen Causes Power Cuts and Travel Disruption
Constantvpn.com – Storm Austen brings power cuts and travel disruption after strong winds and heavy rain swept across southern England, Wales and the Channel Islands. More than 15,000 homes were still without electricity, while further wet and windy weather was forecast for the weekend.
Austen, the first named storm of the season, moved into south-west England overnight before tracking eastwards. Jersey recorded gusts of 84mph (135km/h), while winds reached 76mph (122km/h) in Guernsey, a severe gale classified as force nine.
Engineers restored electricity to more than 60,000 properties, but repair work continued for households still affected. High winds can damage overhead lines and bring down trees, making it harder for crews to work safely.
Waves damage Brighton’s West Pier
Huge waves battered Brighton’s West Pier, causing part of the abandoned structure to collapse into the sea. The pier opened in 1866, closed to the public in 1975 and has deteriorated over time, but remains a familiar landmark on the city’s seafront.
Stephen Royle, who lives opposite the pier, said he was shocked by the scale of the damage as waves rolled in from the sea.
“The waves rolling in were enormous,” he said.
Rough seas also disrupted ferry crossings between the UK and France. The cancellations raised concerns for the Channel Islands, where delays to sea services could affect deliveries of fresh food and other supplies.
Rail, flights and schools affected
Storm Austen brings power cuts alongside disruption on roads and railways, with fallen trees blocking routes in parts of southern England. National Rail warned that services could run slower than normal, and passengers were advised to check before travelling.
Flights were also affected. Jersey Airport said flights would not operate until at least 17:00, while travellers using Cornwall Airport Newquay were urged to contact their airline. Several departures from Exeter Airport were cancelled.
Schools across Jersey and Guernsey closed as the storm passed through the islands. Some schools in Cornwall also closed or opened later than usual, and families were evacuated from a holiday park in Perranporth before the worst weather arrived.
In Horsham, a falling tree badly damaged a car, although the driver was not injured. Another fallen tree in Gorey, Jersey, illustrated the danger posed by strong gusts.
Storm Boelo brings further wind and rain risk
Attention is turning to Storm Boelo, which is expected to affect much of the UK on Saturday and Sunday. An amber wind warning covers large areas of Scotland, excluding the Northern Isles, as well as the far north of England and Northern Ireland.
Winds could reach 60mph to 70mph in affected areas, with exposed coasts potentially seeing gusts of up to 80mph. Yellow wind warnings are also in force for Orkney, the rest of Northern Ireland and northern England.
Heavy rain may make driving more difficult through surface water and spray, while prolonged downpours could lead to localised flooding. People should allow extra time for journeys and monitor rail, ferry and flight updates.
FAQ: Advice for areas affected by Storm Austen
What should I do during a power cut? Keep torches and charged devices available, avoid using candles where possible, and check updates from your electricity network operator. If you rely on electrically powered medical equipment, follow your emergency plan and seek urgent help if needed.
Is it safe to travel in high winds? Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather. If a journey cannot be postponed, check road, rail, ferry and flight services before leaving, drive cautiously and never attempt to cross flooded roads.
How can I prepare for further disruption? Secure loose outdoor items, charge essential devices, keep food and medicines accessible, and stay away from damaged power lines and coastal areas affected by large waves.