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Storm Austen to Batter UK This Week with Heavy Wind and Rain - How It Got Its Name
The storm could bring 70mph gusts, travel disruption and power cuts as heavy rain moves across England and Wales.
- The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for England and Wales on Friday as Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2026/27 season, approaches from the Atlantic with heavy rain and strong winds.
- Partnering with the Irish Meteorological Service and KNMI, the Met Office named the system in honour of Austen Nagle, the first director of the Irish Meteorological Service, marking the 2026/27 season's inaugural selection.
- Widespread gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected, potentially reaching 70 mph in exposed coastal locations, while heavy rainfall will accompany the storm with accumulations of 20 to 30 mm likely in many places.
- Met Office head of warnings and guidance Holly Clements said, "A named storm provides a clear focus for forecasts and warnings," helping people prepare for anticipated disruptions including travel delays and power cuts.
- Austen moves into the North Sea later Friday, clearing briefly before a second, less intense system arrives Saturday bringing gusts of 70 to 80 mph to western Scotland, potentially delaying ferry services and closing bridges.
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Total News Sources36
Leaning Left3Leaning Right5Center23Last UpdatedBias Distribution74% Center
Bias Distribution
- 74% of the sources are Center
74% Center
C 74%
R 16%
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