Storm Austen brings 50‑60 mph gusts to southern England, 70 mph gusts in Wales and heavy rain across London, Scotland and parts of Ireland

The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for southern England with expected gusts of 50‑60 mph, while a separate yellow warning for Wales forecasts gusts of 70 mph or higher and includes a danger‑to‑life alert for the south and west. In London, strong winds of up to near‑50 mph are expected alongside heavy rain that may continue into Saturday. Heavy rain associated with the storm has prompted a flood warning for parts of Scotland and orange‑level flood and rain alerts for six counties in the Republic of Ireland. Authorities warn that the conditions could cause power cuts and travel disruptions in the affected regions.