The first named storm of the season, Austen, is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain to parts of the United Kingdom on Friday, officials have warned. A weather warning has been issued as forecasters say the system will produce severe gales in areas exposed to the strongest winds.
Austen is the first storm to be assigned a name this season, under the practice of naming impactful low-pressure systems. Meteorological agencies use names to help communicate risks from strong winds and heavy precipitation to the public.
The warning covers a period on Friday when the storm's core passes close enough to parts of the UK to generate the most intense conditions. Forecasters say the combination of strong winds and heavy downpours could create hazardous conditions in affected areas.
Authorities and weather agencies are expected to monitor conditions closely and update warnings as the system evolves. People in areas under the weather warning are advised to keep abreast of local forecasts and official guidance as Austen moves through the region.