UK braces for heightened flood risk as storms cause power outages and transport disruptions

Storm Austen brought damaging winds to the South West, with a 76 mph gust recorded at St Mary’s Airport on the Isles of Scilly, leaving over 16,000 homes without power, including more than 5,000 priority-service customers. National Grid crews have restored electricity to the majority of affected sites, and the Met Office’s amber wind warning covered Cornwall, Devon and the Isles of Scilly. A subsequent amber warning for Storm Boelo targets Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland.

Flight cancellations by Loganair and disruptions on several UK airports have been reported, while rail operators such as Southern Rail, Network Rail Scotland and National Rail have adjusted schedules and advised passengers to plan ahead. Cornwall County Council confirmed numerous school closures and road incidents involving fallen trees and flooding. Officials are emphasizing the need for households to keep food and essential supplies on hand as the country prepares for further severe weather and potential flooding.