If you didn’t think autumn had arrived already, you’re in for a shock in the next couple of days, because Storm Austen is heading for Greater Manchester, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning for wind.
Although the South West of England, Wales and ultimately Scotland will be hit hardest by Storm Austen, Greater Manchester and the wider North West are not immune. Thursday evening (October 22) into Friday (October 23) is set to be pretty wild, with plenty of wind and rain coming in to batter much of the region.
The Met Office warns:
A wider Yellow warning for wind remains in place from Thursday evening into Friday and has been updated as confidence in the storm’s track and strength increases.
Storm Austen is forecast to move across southern Britain late Thursday and during Friday morning, bringing the greatest risk of disruptive weather to southern and southwestern areas.
Alongside severe gales, some locations will see spells of heavy rain. A Yellow rain warning has also been issued across parts of southern and eastern Scotland for Friday.
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. While there remains some uncertainty in the exact track of the storm, there is increasing confidence in the potential for disruptive winds across parts of southwest England, which is why an Amber warning has been issued.
“Winds gusts could potentially reach 60-70 mph for a time, and these strong winds will be combined with spells of heavy rain. People in affected areas should keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings as the event develops.”
Winds will gradually ease through Friday afternoon and evening.
North West weather forecast
Tonight (October 22)
A dry and bright evening before heavy rain and low cloud push northeastwards with Storm Austen. Windy for a time during the early hours the easing briefly towards dawn. Minimum temperature 5 °C.
Friday (October 23)
Outbreaks of heavy and persistent rain continue to move northeastwards through the day. Winds quickly picking up through the morning with gales likely along western coasts. Maximum temperature 12 °C.
Outlook for Saturday (October 24) to Monday (October 26)
Strong winds and heavy rain Saturday before a brief settled interlude brings sunny spells and isolated light showers on Sunday. Further wind and rain arrives Monday.
Not much settled weather on the horizon, but hopefully it’s the storm before the calm. Keep up to date with the weather forecast and any warnings and advice on the Met Office website.
