Moment massive chunk of pier collapses into sea as 80mph winds smash UK
THIS is the shocking moment a massive chunk of a historic pier collapsed into the sea as Storm Austen battered the UK coast.
TL;DR
- A large section of Brighton's historic West Pier collapsed into the sea during Storm Austen.
- Storm Austen brought 80mph gusts, causing travel chaos, power outages, and school closures.
- Thousands of homes are without power in England and Wales.
- Several holiday parks have been evacuated.
- Storm Boelo is forecast to arrive on Saturday, bringing more strong winds and heavy rain.
- Met Office issued warnings for potential flying debris, building damage, and travel disruption.
- The historic West Pier, first opened in 1866, has been damaged by fires and previous storms.