Met Office issues 'danger to life' warning as 43 areas face power cuts
The Met Office has issued a rare amber warning for wind and updated a previously issued yellow alert. Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2026/2027 autumn season, is forecast to bring damaging winds on Friday morning. The amber warning which will run from 3am to 10am on Friday is in place for Cornwall, Devon, Isles of Scilly and Plymouth. A spell of very strong northwesterly winds could see gusts hit 80mph for exposed headlands, while gales of 60-70 mph will develop more widely .
TL;DR
- Rare amber warning for wind issued for Cornwall, Devon, Isles of Scilly, and Plymouth from 3am to 10am Friday.
- Storm Austen is forecast to bring very strong northwesterly winds, with gusts up to 80mph on exposed headlands.
- High likelihood (50-75%) of significant impact, including potential power cuts, mobile service disruption, and damage to buildings.
- Risk of injuries and danger to life from flying debris, large waves, and beach material.
- Yellow wind warning remains in place for wider parts of southern England and Wales until 2pm Friday.
- Recommendations include gathering essential items, protecting property, and staying indoors as much as possible.