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The UK is bracing for strong winds, heavy rain and travel disruption as Storm Austen brings severe weather on Friday, followed by a second named storm, Boelo, over the weekend.
Several weather warnings have been issued across the UK, with the South West of England facing potentially damaging winds. The Met Office has warned of hazardous coastal conditions, disruption to transport and possible damage to buildings.
An amber warning for wind has been issued for Cornwall, Devon and the Isles of Scilly as Storm Austen moves across the region. According to the Met Office, gusts could reach 80mph in exposed locations, creating a risk of flying debris and damage to buildings.
The warning is scheduled to remain in force until 10am on Friday, 23 October. Residents and visitors have been advised to take care, particularly when travelling or spending time near the coast.
Yellow wind warnings also cover large parts of England and Wales. Gusts of between 45mph and 55mph are forecast in some areas, while other locations could experience winds of 50mph to 60mph. Exposed coastal areas may face even stronger gusts.
The conditions could affect road journeys, public transport and other essential services. People are advised to check travel information before setting out and follow the latest official weather guidance.
The Met Office has warned that Storm Austen could bring large waves and dangerous conditions along parts of the Welsh and south-west English coast.
Chief forecaster Neil Armstrong urged people to stay away from cliff edges and keep well back from stormy seas, which can sweep people off their feet.
Coastal areas may be particularly hazardous during periods of strong winds and high waves. Members of the public are advised not to approach sea walls, exposed headlands or other locations where waves could pose a danger.
Scotland is also facing unsettled weather, with a yellow warning for rain in place from 7am until midnight on Friday, according to the report.
Heavy rainfall could lead to localised flooding and disruption to travel in affected areas. Motorists should allow extra time for journeys and avoid driving through floodwater.
In the Channel Islands, the Government of Jersey has announced that schools will be closed on Friday following a red weather warning for wind. Islanders have also been advised to remain indoors.
The unsettled conditions are expected to continue into the weekend, with Storm Boelo forecast to affect the UK from Saturday.
The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning covering mainland Scotland, the Western Isles, Orkney and the far north of England from 6pm on Saturday until 9pm on Sunday. Widespread gusts of 55mph to 65mph are forecast, while exposed coastal areas could experience gusts of 70mph to 80mph.
A separate yellow wind warning has been issued for Northern Ireland from 6pm on Saturday until 3pm on Sunday. Gusts of 50mph to 60mph are expected in many areas, with stronger winds possible in exposed locations.
Heavy rain is also forecast across the UK on Saturday as Storm Boelo moves in from the west. The combination of rain and strong winds could cause further travel disruption and hazardous conditions.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather warnings, check transport services and make appropriate preparations before the storms arrive.
Dr Chloe Brimicombe, from the University of Oxford, told Sky News that the shift from this year's heatwaves to powerful storms illustrates what she described as “climate whiplash”.
She explained that the jet stream, a fast-moving current of air high in the atmosphere, plays an important role in shaping the UK's weather. Changes in its behaviour can influence both hot weather and storm systems.
Her comments come after a year marked by several heatwaves, with the latest storms bringing a sharp change in conditions. However, individual storms require detailed scientific analysis before their intensity or occurrence can be attributed directly to climate change.
People across affected areas should keep up to date with Met Office warnings and follow advice from local authorities and emergency services. Before travelling, check for road closures, rail delays and cancellations.
Loose garden furniture and other outdoor objects should be secured where it is safe to do so. During periods of severe winds, people should avoid unnecessary journeys and stay away from trees, damaged structures and exposed coastal locations.
With Storm Austen affecting parts of the UK and Storm Boelo expected to follow, conditions could change quickly over the coming days.
