Storm Austen to Hit Southern UK with 70mph Winds 2026

Storm Austen is forecast to become the first named storm of the season, with gusts of up to 70mph expected to hit southern areas of the UK later this week, according to the Met Office.

The forecaster said an area of low pressure in the Atlantic would deepen rapidly as it is invigorated by the jet stream, bringing strong winds and potential disruption.

What to Expect from Storm Austen

While Tuesday and Wednesday will see spells of rain and showers for many, conditions will deteriorate by Thursday as Storm Austen approaches the south-west of the UK.

The Met Office has issued a yellow severe weather warning for strong wind from midnight to midday on Friday, covering most of south-west England, southern Wales, and parts of the south coast as far east as Brighton.

Peak gusts in excess of 70mph are possible on the most exposed coastal areas, while 50-60mph are likely more widely within the warning area.

Why Storm Austen Was Named

A storm in the UK is named when it has the potential to cause disruption or damage that could result in an amber or red warning.

The Met Office deputy chief forecaster Tom Crabtree said: “While the exact track and position of Storm Austen is still being determined, what’s clear is that we have an impactful period of weather on the way and the potential for disruption in places, which has resulted in the system being named.”

He added that weather warnings are under constant review and could be updated as confidence increases, so it’s important to stay up to date.

Who Is Affected by Storm Austen?

Residents in south-west England, southern Wales, and along the south coast to Brighton should prepare for possible travel disruptions, power cuts, and damage to trees and structures.

Coastal areas are most at risk, with the potential for large waves and flooding in some locations.

• Yellow wind warning in effect from midnight to midday Friday.
• Peak gusts of 70mph possible on exposed coasts.
• Widespread gusts of 50-60mph within the warning area.
• Potential for travel delays and power outages.
• Stay updated with the latest Met Office warnings.

How to Prepare for Storm Austen

With strong winds on the way, it’s wise to secure loose objects outside your home, such as garden furniture and bins, and to check for any loose tiles or fencing.

If you’re traveling, allow extra time and check for delays or cancellations before you set off. Keep your phone charged and have a torch and batteries handy in case of power cuts.

For those in coastal areas, avoid walking near cliffs or seafronts during the storm, as large waves and strong gusts can be dangerous.

Comparing Storm Austen to Previous Storms

Storm Austen is the first named storm of the season, but how does it compare to past events? The table below shows typical impacts based on wind speed.

As with any storm, the actual impacts will depend on the exact track and intensity, so stay informed with the latest forecasts.

What to Watch Next

The Met Office will continue to monitor the situation and may update the warning level as confidence in the forecast increases.

Keep an eye on local news and official channels for any changes to the warning or advice.

For those planning travel or outdoor activities, it’s advisable to have a backup plan and be ready to adjust as the storm approaches.

While Storm Austen is a UK event, similar storms can occur elsewhere. For instance, tropical systems like Tropical Storm Isaias can also intensify rapidly and cause significant disruption, as seen in our report on Tropical Storm Isaias forecast to become first hurricane. Understanding how these storms develop can help you prepare for severe weather wherever you are. The background to this story is set out in Storm Names 2026-27: Met Office Reveals Shaun the Sheep. A related thread runs through July Driest Month in Southern England on Record, Met Office. Earlier coverage in El Niño to Bring Record UK Storms, Met Office Warns of Biggest Event shows how the argument developed.

In the UK, autumn and winter often bring named storms, so it’s worth reviewing your emergency kit and knowing how to stay safe during high winds. The Met Office provides regular updates and advice on its website and social media channels. A closer look at the same subject appears in Tropical Storm Bertha Hits Louisiana: Key Preparedness Tips. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Europe Temperature Drop: UK Rain Forecast and Cooler Weather. The same theme surfaces in Driest July in Southern England: Climate Crisis Impact, which takes a different angle.

As Storm Austen approaches, make sure you’re signed up for local alerts and have a plan in place to protect yourself and your property. Context on how this played out before sits in Midwest Storm Power Outages: 540K Homes Affected.