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Storm Austen hits UK: 80mph winds, power cuts, what to do

UK WEATHER

Storm Austen strikes the UK

Britain's first named storm of the season hit on Friday 23 October 2026.

80MPH GUSTS

Winds reach 80mph

One gust of 111mph was recorded in Padstow, Cornwall, on Friday morning.

POWER CUTS

20,000 homes go dark

The National Grid said more than 18,000 homes in the southwest lost power.

CORNWALL

Schools shut down

Some schools in Cornwall closed for the day. Others opened late for safety.

BRIGHTON

Brighton pier falls into sea

Large waves broke part of the West Pier. Video showed it crumbling into the water.

TRAVEL

Travel disrupted

Southampton Airport cancelled most flights. Trains faced delays and cancellations.

SAFETY

Stay away from the coast

The lifeboat service urged people not to visit coastal spots during the storm.

STORM BOELO

Second storm on the way

Storm Boelo arrives on Saturday with more 80mph gusts across northern Britain.

AT HOME

Charge phones now

Charge phones and power banks. Find a torch. Tie down garden furniture.

AT HOME

Call 105 if power fails

Call 105 for free if your power goes off. Your network operator will help.

COMPENSATION

You may be owed money

After 24 hours without power, the first payment is 90 pounds under energy rules.

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