Nearly 7,000 homes have been left without power after Storm Austen hit the UK overnight, with flights and trains cancelled as millions of people are placed under weather warnings by mid-morning.
The South West is the most affected region, with a red weather warning in place over Guernsey and Jersey, while Devon and Cornwall are under an amber warning for strong winds.
Schools close and travel disrupted
A number of schools are closing or opening late in the region, and residents have been urged to postpone non-essential journeys, as roads and power lines have been damaged by fallen trees.
The National Grid is reporting 6,980 homes in Cornwall have no power, including 2,241 vulnerable households.
Yellow warnings from 10am
A yellow warning will kick in at 10am across the South East and North West of England, East Midlands and Wales.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong said: “This is the first stormy weather in the south of the UK this season and we expect some disruption as it moves through.”
“With trees in leaf, it is likely fallen branches and trees could obstruct roads and railways so take extra care on the Friday morning commute.”
Storm Boelo to follow this weekend
Storm Boelo will follow Storm Austen this weekend, impacting Northern Ireland, Scotland and parts of northern England.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “Storm Boelo will bring strong winds and heavy rain to Northern Ireland, Scotland and parts of northern England over the weekend, impacting the opposite end of the country to Storm Austen.”
“Gusts of 70-80mph in exposed coastal areas and high ground are possible, with 50-60mph gusts more widely.”
“The strong winds will be accompanied by heavy rain, making for an impactful weekend of weather.”
