Storm Austen: what to do now, and what to do if it hit your home
Storm Austen has brought strong winds and heavy rain to southern Britain. Here is how to stay safe, what to do if you have damage, and how we can help.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
- Storm Austen crossed southern Britain late Thursday and during Friday morning. Winds are easing through Friday afternoon and evening.
- The Met Office issued an amber wind warning for Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and parts of West Devon, and a wider yellow wind warning for southern England and south Wales.
- Gusts of 50 to 60mph were likely across much of the warning area, with more than 70mph possible on exposed coasts.
- Heavy rain came with the wind, with 20 to 30mm in many places on Friday and more over high ground.
- It stays unsettled through the weekend. Another low may bring strong winds to northern parts of the UK on Saturday and Sunday.
STAYING SAFE
- Keep away from damaged buildings, fallen trees and anything near power lines.
- Do not walk or drive through floodwater.
- Stay well back from the coast. Large waves can knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea.
- If someone is in trouble in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Do not go in after them.
IF YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS HAS BEEN DAMAGED
- Make it safe. Stay out of any area that looks unsafe.
- Take photos and video of all the damage before you tidy up.
- Stop it getting worse. Make sensible temporary repairs, such as covering a hole in the roof, and keep every receipt.