Storm Austen brings power cuts and travel disruption as more wind and rain forecast

Storm Austen Brings Power Cuts and Travel Disruption

Ninoda.com – Storm Austen brings power cuts, transport delays and dangerous coastal conditions across southern England, Wales and the Channel Islands. More than 15,000 homes were still without electricity after damaging winds and heavy rain swept through, while further unsettled weather was forecast for the weekend.

Austen, the first named storm of the season, made landfall in the south-west before moving east. Jersey recorded gusts of 84mph (135km/h), and fallen trees caused problems on roads and railway lines in several areas.

National Grid said engineers had restored electricity to more than 60,000 properties since the storm began. However, repairs remained difficult in places where high winds, damaged infrastructure and blocked access routes created unsafe working conditions.

West Pier damaged by powerful waves

Part of Brighton’s historic West Pier fell into the sea after being battered by powerful waves. The pier opened in 1866 and closed in 1975, but its remains have continued to be a prominent feature of the seafront.

“The waves rolling in were enormous,” said resident Stephen Royle, who described being shocked by how much of the structure had fallen into the water.

The collapse highlighted the risk posed by storm-driven seas. People near exposed coastlines were urged to stay clear of waves, spray and debris, which can remain hazardous even away from the water’s edge.

Schools, flights and ferry services affected

All schools in Jersey and Guernsey closed for the day, while some schools in Cornwall either shut or opened later. Families were evacuated from a holiday park at Perranporth in Cornwall before the worst of the weather arrived.

Ferry crossings between the UK and France were cancelled, rail services faced delays and flights were disrupted. Jersey Airport said services would not operate until at least 17:00, while Cornwall Airport Newquay advised passengers to check with their airlines before travelling. Several flights were also cancelled at Exeter Airport.

Storm Austen brings power cuts alongside wider disruption because strong winds can damage overhead lines and bring down trees. In Horsham, a tree fell onto a car, causing significant damage, although the driver was not injured.

Storm Boelo Raises Further Weekend Concerns

Attention then turned to Storm Boelo, with an amber wind warning issued for Saturday and Sunday across much of Scotland, excluding the Northern Isles, as well as the far north of England and Northern Ireland. Gusts of 60mph to 70mph were forecast, with exposed coastal locations potentially seeing winds close to 80mph.

The Channel Islands also faced concerns about food supplies after ferry disruption affected deliveries. Mark Cox, who leads the Co-op operation on the islands, said the speed and severity of the disruption were unusual.

Guernsey experienced gusts of up to 76mph (122km/h), according to Jersey Met head Paul Aked. With further strong winds expected, residents were advised to monitor local forecasts, allow extra time for journeys and avoid unnecessary travel during severe conditions.

Storm Austen FAQ

What should I do during a power cut?

Keep torches, spare batteries and a charged phone available. Avoid using candles where possible, check on vulnerable neighbours if it is safe to do so, and follow updates from your electricity network operator.

Should I travel during storm warnings?

Check the latest information from rail, ferry and airline operators before leaving. Expect cancellations, slower journeys and road closures, especially in coastal and wooded areas.

How can I stay safe near the coast?

Keep well away from sea walls, piers and beaches during high winds and large waves. Conditions can change quickly, and waves can sweep people off paths or throw debris inland.