21/10/2026
Keep safe everyone!
⚠️ STORM AUSTEN ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE STRONG WINDS? ⚠️
Good afternoon, everyone!
Thanks to Prestige Cornwall Ltd
Well, you only have to look at some of today's newspaper headlines to see words like "BATTER", "SMASH" and "BRITS URGED TO PREPARE" as Storm Austen heads towards the UK!
One newspaper is even suggesting we should all be gathering batteries!
Now, while some of these headlines can be rather dramatic, there is actually a very important message behind all this.
If your electricity went off during a storm, would you be prepared?
Have you got a working torch that isn't attached to your mobile phone? What about a charged power bank, spare batteries or a few essential supplies?
Those who remember the electricity strikes of the 1970s probably still have a collection of candles somewhere in the cupboard!
Although these days, we'd strongly recommend battery-powered lights instead. The last thing we need during a storm is the fire brigade having to visit because someone knocked over a candle!
AND THIS IS EXACTLY WHY WEATHER WARNINGS MATTER!
Here at Kernow Weather Team, we don't issue weather watches and warnings just because there's another storm with a fancy name heading across the Atlantic.
They're there to give people time to think, prepare and, if necessary, change their plans.
A little preparation can help prevent injuries, reduce damage and make a difficult situation much less stressful.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH STORM AUSTEN?
Storm Austen is expected to arrive during Thursday night, while most of us are tucked up in bed.
By the early hours of Friday, very strong northwesterly winds could be affecting Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The Met Office has issued an Amber Weather Warning for wind between 3am and 10am Friday, with potentially damaging gusts, heavy rain and disruption to travel.
There is also a risk of power cuts, fallen trees and flying debris.
And remember, the winds won't suddenly disappear when the Amber Warning expires!
AND WHAT ABOUT SATURDAY?
Unfortunately, there could be another deep Atlantic low-pressure system affecting parts of the UK during Saturday and into Sunday.
Some weather models are suggesting another potentially significant spell of wind and rain, especially farther north.
Could we see another named storm? It's possible, but nothing has been confirmed, and we'll continue watching the latest developments.
A VERY IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT COASTAL SAFETY!
The RNLI has also issued safety advice ahead of Storm Austen.
With large waves, powerful winds and dangerous sea conditions expected, please stay well away from harbour walls, exposed coastal paths, cliffs and the water's edge.
One unexpected wave can knock you off your feet or sweep you into the sea.
If you see someone in difficulty in the water, please DO NOT jump in after them!
Remember the RNLI's advice: PHONE, FLOAT, THROW.
PHONE 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
FLOAT Tell the person to float on their back and try to control their breathing.
THROW If possible, throw them something that floats, such as a lifebuoy.
If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember Float to Live. Lean back, keep your ears in the water, relax and try to breathe normally until you can call for help or reach safety.
A FINAL WORD FROM KWT HQ
Please take a few minutes today to secure your garden furniture, bins and anything else that might decide to visit the neighbours on Friday morning!
Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, charge your phones and torches, and consider whether any journeys can wait until the worst conditions have passed.
We're not here to frighten people. We're here to provide information, explain the risks and help everyone stay safe.
And trust me, I'd much rather spend Friday watching weather charts than hearing reports of people being injured unnecessarily.
Please share this post. It might just remind someone to make that little bit of preparation which could make a big difference.
Stay safe, everyone, and we'll continue bringing you updates as Storm Austen approaches.
Kind regards,
KWT Dave
From moor to shore, we've got Cornwall covered.
