Met Office urges homes in 38 areas to gather torches and batteries by Friday
The Met Office has urged households in 38 areas to prepare torches and batteries as Storm Austen threatens to bring power cuts and 70mph-plus winds on Friday. A yellow weather warning has been issued for parts of England and Wales on October 23, with gusts of 50-60mph possible and winds of 70mph or more potentially hitting some coastal and exposed locations. Forecasters warn there is a "slight chance" of power cuts, which could also affect other services including mobile phone coverage. In advice issued alongside the warning, the Met Office said: "People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items."
TL;DR
- A yellow weather warning is in effect for 38 areas in England and Wales on October 23.
- Storm Austen could bring winds of 70mph or more, especially in coastal areas.
- There is a slight chance of power cuts, affecting mobile phone coverage and other services.
- Residents are advised to prepare torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs.
- Damage to buildings, flying debris, and transport disruption are possible.
- People should secure outdoor items like bins, garden furniture, and trampolines.
- Coastal residents are warned to be aware of large waves.