First storm of season brings day of disruption
Storm Austen has caused widespread disruption across the UK's South West and Channel Islands, resulting in power outages, school closures, and travel cancellations. A second storm, Storm Boelo, is expected to follow shortly, bringing further wet and windy conditions.
Why it matters
Severe weather events have immediate impacts on infrastructure, public safety, and regional economic activity.
Image source, Penzance Council Image caption, Crews dealt with multiple fallen trees in Cornwall, including in Penzance
Thousands of homes were left without power, trains cancelled and schools shut as Storm Austen hit the South West and Channel Islands.
A red weather warning for wind was issued for the Channel Islands, with gusts of 84mph (135km/h) recorded at Jersey Airport just before 06:00 BST. Gusts of 76mph were recorded in the Isles of Scilly.
In Cornwall highway teams responded to about 250 emergencies, including 150 reports of fallen trees, while similar issues also arose in Devon.
There was travel disruption across the region with train lines blocked in several places and flights cancelled.
Image source, Penzance Council Image caption, Visitors at Penlee Park in Penzance were warned to be aware of any debris
At its peak more than 13,000 properties were affected by power cuts in Cornwall.
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