Storm Austen to bring October half-term washout: First named storm of the season to batter drought-hit England with 70mph winds and heavy rain

Storm Austen, the first named storm of the season, is forecast to reach Britain on Thursday night, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that could disrupt October half-term travel. The warning covers parts of south-east England, south-west England and Wales, while rain is expected nationwide.

The storm is expected to be strongest on Friday morning, with gusts exceeding 70mph in exposed coastal areas and 50–60mph more widely in the warning area. Many places could receive 20–30mm of rain, with possible travel disruption, building damage and power cuts. The rain may ease drought pressure in parts of the south-west, where reservoir levels are low and hosepipe bans remain in place.