Storm Austen to bring travel disruption across Berkshire

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 17:33 · Archive

Storm Austen will bring strong winds of 45–55mph to Berkshire on Friday, with yellow weather warnings and expected travel disruption.

Storm Austen is set to bring strong winds and travel disruption to Berkshire on Friday. A yellow weather warning for wind covers Reading, West Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and surrounding areas, with gusts of around 45–55mph forecast inland from 10am until 9pm. The Met Office has warned that the strong winds, combined with locally heavy rain and trees still in full leaf, could result in power cuts and disruption to travel.

Bus and train journeys are expected to be affected and could take longer than usual. National Rail has confirmed that Storm Austen will affect Great Western Railway services, with pre-planned changes being made to some trains on Friday. Long-distance Great Western Railway services will run between London Paddington and Plymouth only, with local trains operating a shuttle between Plymouth and Penzance. Some early-morning trains on Saturday could also be cancelled while teams assess any damage caused by the storm.

Passengers are being strongly encouraged to check their journeys before setting off and allow extra time where possible. Those who decide not to travel can claim a full refund. National Highways has urged motorists to prepare before heading out, advising drivers to check their tyre tread, pressure and condition, and ensure their vehicle's lights are working.

How it is being reported

• Storm Austen to sweep across Berkshire as travel disruption expectedStorm Austen is set to bring strong winds to Berkshire, with rail passengers and motorists warned of possible travel disruption.Bracknell News · 22 Oct, 17:17
• Storm Austen to sweep across Berkshire as travel disruption expectedStorm Austen is set to bring strong winds to Berkshire, with rail passengers and motorists warned of possible travel disruption.Reading Chronicle · 22 Oct, 17:00

In this story: Storm Austen · Berkshire · Reading · West Berkshire · Buckinghamshire · Great Western Railway · National Rail · Met Office

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