Storm Austen: Latest as powerful storm approaches Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight with 70mph winds possible

Storm Austen is continuing its approach towards the South, with damaging winds, heavy rain and potentially significant travel disruption expected across Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight overnight and into Friday.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning covering the region, while an amber warning is in force for parts of South West England, where the strongest winds are currently forecast.

The first named storm of the 2026/27 season is expected to bring gusts of between 50 and 60mph across affected areas, with winds potentially exceeding 70mph in the most exposed coastal locations.

According to the latest Met Office forecast available ahead of Thursday morning, Storm Austen is developing over the Atlantic and is expected to intensify rapidly as it approaches the UK.

The storm is being strengthened by the jet stream, a powerful current of air high in the atmosphere, which is helping to drive the developing low-pressure system towards Britain.

Its exact track remains subject to change, but forecasters expect the storm to move across southern Britain from west to east late on Thursday and through Friday morning.

For West Sussex, East Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, the yellow wind warning is in force from midnight until midday on Friday 23 October.

A separate amber warning covering Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and parts of West Devon reflects the greater risk of damaging winds further west.

The Met Office says a spell of strong southerly winds will move eastwards along the south coast during Thursday night, with gusts potentially reaching 50 to 60mph.

These will be followed by strong west to northwesterly winds during Friday, accompanied by periods of heavy rain.

Credit: Met Office

Coastal communities could experience the most challenging conditions, with large waves and dangerous conditions along seafronts, beaches and exposed promenades.

There is also the possibility of fallen trees, flying debris, damage to buildings and interruptions to electricity supplies.

Road, rail, air and ferry services could be affected, particularly during the Friday morning rush hour.

Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “Storm Austen is expected to bring a spell of impactful weather to parts of the UK from Thursday night and through Friday.”

The Met Office has warned that forecast details and weather warnings could change as confidence increases in the storm's track and intensity.

Conditions are expected to improve gradually during Friday afternoon as the strongest winds ease and Storm Austen moves eastwards towards the North Sea.

However, the unsettled weather is likely to continue into the weekend, with further spells of wind and rain possible.

Residents are being advised to secure loose garden furniture, bins and other outdoor items, take extra care when travelling and avoid unnecessary risks along exposed coastlines.

Stay one step ahead of Storm Austen with V2 Radio. From 6am on Friday, follow our LIVE rolling coverage at V2RADIO.CO.UK, with breaking news, the latest weather warnings, travel disruption and updates from across the South. Plus, stay tuned to V2 Radio for regular local news bulletins as we track the storm's impact on Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

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